Focus is difficult in a distracting world. A barrage of information and activities flood our lives. Whatever our field of expertise, new information is added faster than anyone can keep up with it. We have family responsibilities, work requirements, church responsibilities, social calendars, repairs and maintenance of all our accumulated stuff, along with everything else that crowds our schedules. No wonder the common complaint from almost everyone is, “We are too busy.”
The things that distract us and pull us in multiple directions until we feel a snap is inevitable, are not necessarily bad things. They just create a lack of focus on what is really important.
God has a plan for the world and for each of us individually. He determined where and when each of us would reside (Acts 17:26). Above all, our purpose is to know Him and make Him known to those around us.
The enemy of our souls is real. He prowls around seeking who he can devour. If he cannot get us off track by luring us into grievous sin, he will distract us from God’s purpose by keeping us busy. He will even do it with seeming good things. He doesn’t care. Good or bad, if it is not where God wants us to be, he has accomplished his purpose of diverting us.
Jesus tells the story of Martha and Mary. Martha welcomed Jesus into her home, yet she is the picture of frustration as she complains to Jesus about her sister, Mary. Sis is not in the kitchen helping Martha with everything she wanted to get done. Martha is described as, “distracted with much serving.” Meanwhile, Mary focused on the one thing Jesus said was important. Mary sat at Jesus’ feet and listened to His teaching. (Luke 10)
God’s will is not the mystery many think it is. As we study His words to us in the Bible, He reveals Himself and His purposes. The Lord confides in those who fear him; he makes his covenant known to them. (Psalm 25:14). NIV
The Bible also tells us not to just listen to His words but to live them out. Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock . . . But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn’t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. (Matthew 7:24,26 NLT). But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise you are only fooling yourselves. (James 1:22 NLT).
This is the time of year many pause and reflect. New years resolutions attest to the desires of many to live better lives. We would do well to resolve to grow in our understanding of who God is and who He calls us to be. A focus on the things of this world is not only distracting, but futile. The things of this world are passing away. If we instead focus on God and His plan and purpose for our lives, everything else will fall into place. It begins with taking His word seriously.
But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:41-42 NLT
What distracts you? How is God redirecting your thinking about what is important? Please leave a comment below.
Blessings,
Phyllis
Copyright 2023 Phyllis L Farringer
Phyllis,
This is such a meaningful message! Yes, God wants us to focus on Him and his plan for us throughout the day. And He wants us to seek his long-term guidance for us. As you pointed out, the Scriptures are not a mystery, but clear. Blessed 2024 to you and to those who read your messages.
Thank you, Charlotte. I am glad you found it meaningful. Blessed New Year.