The Discipline of Disconnecting

As 2025 comes to a close, Josh Thomas and Pastor Chris Kouba reflect on a big year personally and at United City—and then pivot into a highly practical conversation about fasting as they head into 2026. They unpack why “the discipline of disconnecting” is often the missing piece for men who feel spiritually dry, distracted, or overloaded.

Pastor Chris explains how fasting creates the kind of intentional emptiness that makes room to hear from God again—because, as he puts it, “most men are too full to hear from God.” From full schedules and nonstop entertainment to constant phone-checking and comfort habits, the problem often isn’t a lack of information—it’s a lack of space.

This episode is also a step-by-step guide: what fasting is, why Jesus assumes we’ll do it, how to choose a fast, what to do during a fast, and what to expect (including the famous “don’t quit on Tuesday or Wednesday” moment). If you want 2026 to be marked by clarity, hunger for God, and a deeper walk—this one’s for you.

To find out more about Pastor Chris, follow him on all the social platforms (@ckouba) and to connect with the ministry of United City visit https://unitedcity.church.


Show Notes
Follow on Instagram: @stepup.podcast
Follow United City: @untdcitychurch
Connect with Pastor Chris: http://chriskouba.com
More About United City: https://unitedcity.church/