Shared Space Isn’t Connection

Last week, my girls and I went out to eat. When we go out, I usually bring a game or a notebook to keep us entertained while we wait for our food. No phones allowed.

This time, it was a last-minute decision, so we didn’t have any of our usual activities. Thankfully, both of my girls have a lot to say. The conversation was nonstop—laughing, talking, asking questions. We did pull out my phone once to look something up, but then it went right back down.

At the table next to us there was another family—a mom, dad, and adult son. All three were on their phones. In the thirty minutes we were there together, I heard maybe five comments between them. They were sharing space, but not connection.

And I realized…I do this with God. I can go to church and share space with Him, but not really connect. I can read my Bible in the morning and then forget what I read by lunch. I can talk about God all day but never slow down long enough to really be with Him.

“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” — James 4:8

God doesn’t just want our presence—He wants our attention. He’s not interested in us sitting across the table, distracted by everything else. He wants conversation. He wants connection.

Make Monday Matter: This week, put the “phone” down with God—whatever your distraction looks like.

• When you read your Bible, pick one verse to carry with you throughout the day.

• When you pray, pause long enough to listen.

• When you worship, really worship.

  
  

Shared space doesn’t equal connection—it’s time to put the phone down.