We live in an age of constant notifications, updates, and digital noise. Social media has become an ever-present force in our daily lives, offering connection and entertainment but also overwhelming us with distractions, unrealistic comparisons, and information overload. At Petra Bible Church, a bilingual, multi-cultural, Christ-centered church based in Bozeman, Montana, understands that for many, especially young people, the relentless pull of screens leaves little room for reflection, rest, or real connection with God and others.
The result? A generation that struggles with anxiety, loneliness, and spiritual emptiness despite being more “connected” than ever before. The human soul was not designed for an endless barrage of likes, comments, and content consumption. We were created for something deeper—solitude, reflection, and communion with God.
Petra Bible Church of Bozeman understands this and created Petra Wilderness International (PWI). As part of Petra Bible Church’s vision, PWI provides young people with a life-changing opportunity to step away from the digital world and into God’s creation, where they can experience true peace, renewal, and discipleship.
Social media has transformed the way we interact, but it has also hijacked our attention. Studies show that the average person checks their phone 96 times per day—almost every ten minutes. While technology has its benefits, the constant scrolling, comparing, and consuming can leave people feeling drained, disconnected, and dissatisfied.
Young people today face some of the highest rates of anxiety, depression, and stress in history. Many struggle to find meaning amid the chaos of digital life. The Bible teaches the importance of silence and solitude as a way to hear God’s voice:
“Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10
When we make time for quiet reflection, we find clarity. We begin to recognize God’s presence, hear His voice, and experience deep transformation. However, in a world where stillness is rare, we often need a radical step to escape the noise and rediscover true peace.
Petra Wilderness International (PWI) is a Christ-centered outdoor ministry dedicated to leading young people into the backcountry to encounter God, nature, and true discipleship. With a vision to reach over 500 youth in the next decade, PWI provides wilderness expeditions that combine:
These trips are not just about hiking or surviving in the wilderness—they are about learning to be still, listen to God, and experience transformation in His creation. Many young people come back from PWI expeditions with a renewed sense of purpose and faith.
For those who have gone through a Petra Wilderness expedition, the experience is more than just an escape from screens—it’s a life-changing encounter with God’s power and presence.
Paul, a Petra Bible Church member and participant from the Summer 2022 Team, shared how God moved in his life:
“God showed me on the expedition that things that seem unchangeable to me, He can change them in a moment by His power.”
This realization of God’s sovereignty and ability to transform lives is exactly why Petra Wilderness International exists. Many participants arrive with doubts, struggles, and burdens, but through time spent in prayer, reflection, and biblical teaching, they leave renewed and strengthened in their faith.
Another participant and Petra Bible Church member, Amairani, from the Winter 2022 Team, shared:
“God showed me on the expedition that through Him alone do I have the strength and boldness to get through obstacles, whether physically or spiritually.”
The challenges of wilderness life—steep climbs, cold nights, and physical exhaustion—mirror the spiritual challenges we face in everyday life. Petra Bible Church of Bozeman understands that through these experiences, participants learn to lean on Christ’s strength rather than their own.
Petra Bible Church explains that the concept of retreating into the wilderness to encounter God is not new—it is deeply rooted in biblical tradition.
Moses encountered God on Mount Sinai (Exodus 3:1-12).
Elijah heard God’s whisper in the wilderness (1 Kings 19:11-13).
Jesus Himself withdrew to the wilderness to pray (Luke 5:16).
Time away from distractions allows us to focus on God, reset our priorities, and grow in spiritual strength. Petra Bible Church is committed to helping young people rediscover this ancient biblical practice in a way that is relevant to today’s digital age.
If you or a young person you know is feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of social media, technology, and daily life, Petra Bible Church of Bozeman provides some steps to find peace and spiritual renewal:
Social media and technology will always be a part of modern life, but they should never replace true connection with God and others. Petra Bible Church understands that the constant noise of the digital world cannot fill the void in our hearts—only Jesus Christ can.
Petra Wilderness International is an incredible opportunity for young people to step away from distractions and rediscover the peace that comes from being in God’s presence. Petra Bible Church believes that whether it’s through an intense outdoor expedition, deep conversations around a campfire, or the quiet moments of prayer in the mountains, participants walk away with a renewed faith and a clearer understanding of their purpose in Christ.
If you or someone you know is looking for an opportunity to escape the noise and find true peace, consider joining a Petra Wilderness International trip. Petra Bible Church of Bozeman emphasizes that these experiences are not just about survival in the wilderness—they are about thriving in faith and growing closer to Christ.
For more information, visit Petra Wilderness International and take the first step toward a life-changing journey with God in His creation.
