Long, Slow Obedience In An Algorithmic Age

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” - Hebrews 12:1-2

I recently read a compelling argument that said “influencer” is an inaccurate term; rather, social media celebrities should be called “the influenced,” as they are constantly veering off down rabbit trails in pursuit of the current thing. In our algorithmic age, virality is king, to the point that shock value and shareability far outweigh truth, knowledge, and beauty. In the span of a day, the list of “trending” topics on X turns over a dozen times; everyone’s talking about Trump at noon, and by dinner, we’re all mad at Ryan Reynolds.

Our cultural moment is one defined by severe ADHD. Even in the “real world,” outside of cyberspace, chances are you know many people who are constantly redefining themselves in accordance with some new diet, workout plan, self-help book, or leadership podcast.

Bestselling authors are always telling us that their blueprint for life is the best-kept secret to fulfillment, joy, and success. Discover what you’ve been missing all along! We implement the ten steps to a happier life, and pretend that it’s changed everything. Then Simon Sinek, or Malcolm Gladwell, or James Clear release a new book, and we start all over again, like labrador retrievers, always ready to turn course and chase the newest, best, shiniest object.

Globalism has its perks, but it can also provoke a deep, inner dissatisfaction and fear of missing out that stirs up a great deal of movement, but keeps us from real progress. As soon as we get our dream home in our dream neighborhood in our dream suburb, Instagram tells us that all the cool kids are moving to Franklin, Tennessee and building farmhouses on acreage, and we immediately grow restless.

Like a plant constantly uprooted and replanted, we never get a chance to really put down deep roots and grow. This can be physical, in that we’re in a state of perpetual movement and relocation, and also spiritual, in that we are always looking for the next trend to finally bring us fulfillment.