I would like to talk a little bit about distractions and how often we experience them in life with so much going on in the world today. It’s become increasingly common to get sidetracked by various things when we try to focus on important tasks or spend quality time in the presence of the Lord. I find there are times when I go to study and meditate on the Word of God and listen to my praise and worship, I am bombarded with all sorts of stories and notifications that tries to grab my attention. Distractions can come in many forms, such as text messages, phone calls, and the overall cares of life. Then there are those fake, evil, cold, and heartless individuals who will tempt and provoke you to act ugly. However, as I grow older and wiser, I realize that certain activities require more energy from me and my time is extremely valuable, so I chose not to always respond and just stay focused on my God-given assignments.
In order to complete the tasks, the Lord has given us, we must set our face like flint, undeterred by distractions. This requires discipline, tenacity, determination, persistence, and perseverance.
Reflecting on the different distractions that come and go in our lives, I am reminded of the story of Nehemiah in the Bible. In the book of Nehemiah, God gave him the assignment to restore and rebuild the walls of the temple. However, adversaries came to attack, intimidate and threaten him, attempting to avert him from his God-given task. Despite these challenges, Nehemiah refused to come down from the wall. He remained steadfast in his assignment.
Nehemiah responded to the attacks by praying, and as he prayed, the enemies had to shrink back. Through prayer and unwavering focus, he was able to complete the rebuilding of the walls of the temple. You can find this account in the fourth chapter of the book of Nehemiah. Just as Nehemiah faced ridicule and mockery from his adversaries, we will encounter opposition when we are on the right path and about the Father’s business. We must follow Nehemiah’s example and stay on the wall, remaining dedicated to our tasks. We must fix our gaze on Christ and not allow ourselves to be easily distracted by every little thing. Learning to prioritize and take things one day, one project, and one assignment at a time is essential. Finding balance in all that we do is crucial, allowing ourselves to focus on what truly matters.
Throughout the Bible, we see examples of individuals who became distracted from their purpose. For instance, King David, while walking on the rooftop of his palace, happened to catch sight of the stunning Bathsheba as she was bathing, causing him to become distracted. Samson, too, became consumed by his relationship with Delilah. Even Martha was distracted by her work, missing out on the opportunity to sit at the Master’s feet (Luke 10).
Colossians 3:2 reminds us to set our minds on things above, not on earthly things. It is a powerful verse that encourages us to focus on eternal matters rather than being consumed by worldly concerns. By shifting our perspective and fixing our thoughts on heavenly things, we can align ourselves with God’s will and purpose for our lives.
I urge you not to let any distractions, including the enemy’s tactics, deter you from fulfilling God’s purpose for your life. Stay focused on the path that God has set before you! As much hell as some of the righteous remnant have been through for the sake of Christ, nothing and no one is worth missing out on the Kingdom promises and blessings that God has in store for us!