Earlier this year, an American social psychologist named Jonathan Haidt published a book called, The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness.
In his book, Haidt presents research that shows the negative impact of a phone-based childhood, including adverse effects of heavy social media usage during childhood and addiction to video games. He also claims that emphasis on virtual relationships and a lack of real-life relationships are causing this generation to experience a greater level of loneliness, isolation, and anxiety.
Haidt’s recommended response to the anxious generation phenomenon caught me off guard. He calls his readers to return to ancient spiritual practices and cites from the bible several times. I should note that Haidt is an atheist.
The bible teaches, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).
Does this mean that it is sinful to be anxious? Or does it mean that God doesn’t care about our anxieties and wants us to just get over it?
No, the bible teaches us a much more comprehensive perspective on human anxiety; that God cares deeply about our concerns, and desires to help us navigate through our anxieties and find the solid foundation of Jesus Christ on which we could build our lives with peace and confidence in this anxiety filled world.
Our church is hosting a class to study Haidt’s book together and to explore the bible’s teachings on how to live meaningfully in this anxious generation. You are welcome to join us. Details will be available on our website: www.southdelta.org/classes.
