Distraction

<<interruption, disruption>>

A distraction diverts our attention from something of greater importance to something of lesser importance. Competing obligations or goals have a similar effect in hindering our concentration and limiting our effectiveness as our attention moves to what captures our

Satan tries to get us off target

interest. Distractions can reveal what we love. Determination, consistent effort, and a lifestyle that makes all things serve your clearly defined, God-inspired goal are required to guard against distraction. Be self-controlled and choose to lay aside the good so you can receive the best.

Paul’s question was, “You started well, what turned you aside?” (Gal 5:7). Satan is out to deceive and make your life less effective for Christ. He uses various methods to side track including focusing on: the urgent rather than the important; the temporal not the eternal; the cares of the world rather than the things of Christ; controversy over non-essential issues rather than the cross and blood of Christ which are central to our faith; relationships which are not helpful; undue emphasis on accomplishing goals in this life so that there is little time or energy left for spiritual matters; the flesh being weak and open to temptation in contrast to living by the power of the Holy Spirit; sensual desires overcoming dedication to the Lord (1 Tim 5:13). "Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made" while her sister listened to Jesus (Lk 10:40-42). Her faulty perspective lead to having her values in the wrong order and unhealthy attitudes. Environmentally saving the planet is another diversionary tactic to get people focusing on something other than God’s requirement of loving Him with our total being (Mk 12:30).

Deal with distractions so you won’t miss the ideal – “You have left your first love…Repent and do the things you did at first” (Rev 2:4,5). Refuse to be diverted from what you should be focusing on, aware of the subtle diversions and distractions that cross your path

Do I need to regain a clear focus?

which could take you off course. Those opposed to Nehemiah rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem tried to divert his attention from the task at hand but he would not allow them to distract or disrupt him from the job God had called him to (Neh 6:2-4). Resolve like Paul, “I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me...straining...I press on towards the goal” (Phil 3:12-14). Put your efforts into pursuing what God has called you to do.