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STOP LETTING THINGS DISTRACT YOU

Writer's picture: BISHOP JOHN C. PARKSBISHOP JOHN C. PARKS


 a person holding cup saying do what you love

Distractions come in all forms, from our phones buzzing to the endless list of commotions that keep us from what matters most. Whether it is time with loved ones, spiritual growth, or meaningful goals, distractions can lead us off course, sometimes subtly and slowly. These distractions rob us of our most important asset—time. We cannot buy more time; we can lose it. What we do with our time determines our quality of life. Stop letting things distract you.

 

Our world overwhelms us with noise—news feeds, texts, emails, gossip, bad news, and other unproductive things clamor for our attention. Life can overwhelm us and lead us astray by things that seem urgent but are ultimately unimportant. Our time is limited, and focusing on what truly matters aligns us with God’s life purpose [Ephesians 5:15-16].

 

When Jesus visited the home of Martha and Mary, we see a clear lesson in prioritizing what truly matters. Luke 10:38-42 describes how Martha was “distracted with much serving” while Mary chose to sit at Jesus’ feet, listening to Him. Martha grew frustrated, wanting Mary to help her, but Jesus gently corrected her, saying, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” This passage reveals an important truth: filling our lives with endless tasks is easy, but some things are more valuable than others. Mary focused on Jesus, seizing the opportunity for spiritual nourishment, while Martha let herself be pulled away by secondary concerns. This lesson reminds us that we must continually choose the “good portion,” prioritizing spiritual growth, connection, and reflection over the hustle of daily life.

 

Distractions are not just tasks; they are often habits and mindsets. Social media, emails, and entertainment have become routine diversions, making focusing on our personal and spiritual growth harder. We can reclaim our time and attention by identifying these distractions and setting healthy boundaries. Proverbs 4:25-27 advises: “Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you. Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure. Do not swerve to the right or the left; turn your foot away from evil.” This call to focus is practical and spiritual. By fixing our gaze “directly forward,” we align ourselves with God’s path, resisting temptations that might pull us off course.

 

Distractions are not just external; they are also internal. Worry, doubt, and stress can steal our focus, keeping us from pursuing our calling. Paul’s letter to the Philippians reminds us to “not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” [Philippians 4:6-7]. To combat internal distractions, this verse encourages us to turn to prayer and gratitude, making a conscious decision to bring our worries to God. In doing so, we find peace and clarity, grounding us in God’s presence and keeping us centered on His purpose.

 

Staying focused requires discipline and self-control. As 2 Timothy 1:7 tells us, “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” This means God equips us to resist distractions and choose our time and attention wisely. Self-control allows us to choose activities and habits that bring us closer to our goals and empowers us to say “no” to those who do not. It is about making intentional choices rather than letting distractions dictate our actions.

 

Faith is a powerful anchor in the face of distractions. Hebrews 12:1-2 calls us to run the race with perseverance, “fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfected of faith.” Faith gives us the perspective to see beyond the distractions of the present and stay focused on the long-term vision. By fixing our eyes on Christ, we find the courage to set aside minor concerns, anchoring our focus in His unwavering presence.

 

Practical Steps to Minimize Distractions

  1. Establish a Daily Routine with Purposeful Focus.

  2. Set Boundaries for Technology Use.

  3. Meditate on Scripture Regularly.

  4. Prioritize Relationships and Connection over Task Lists: Sometimes, our “to-dos” become distractions.

  5. Ask God for Help in Managing Distractions: A Prayer for Focus and Clarity

 

The journey to resist distractions and stay focused takes work. It requires constant awareness, discipline, and a reliance on God’s guidance. The scriptures provide a blueprint for living purposefully, reminding us to focus on what matters and stay the course with faith and perseverance. As we look to Christ, we find clarity and strength, recognizing that our true purpose is rooted in the eternal, not the fleeting.

 

Staying focused is not about shutting out the world or avoiding responsibilities. It is about centering your life on values, purpose, and the peace that only God can provide. As you embark on the journey to reduce distractions, remember that the reward is a life of deeper connection, meaning, and spiritual growth—qualities that no temporary distraction can replace.

 

 

Bishop John C. Parks

November 7, 2024

 

 











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