Distraction: The Enemy of Focused Purpose

A distraction diverts our attention from something of greater importance to something of lesser importance. It hinders our concentration and limits our effectiveness as our attention shifts to what captures our interest.

What Distractions Reveal

Distractions can reveal what we love and where our true priorities lie. When we are easily diverted, it often shows that our hearts have drifted from God's intended focus. Satan wants us to be sidetracked by what we are missing instead of what we have. He tempts us to fixate on perceived lack, unfulfilled desires, or what others possess that we do not. This focus on what we lack breeds discontent, envy, and a wandering spirit.

The enemy knows that gratitude and contentment are powerful weapons against his schemes. When we focus on God's faithfulness and the blessings He has already provided, we become anchored in truth and less susceptible to deception. Paul reminds us, "I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want" (Phil 4:12). True contentment comes from trusting that God knows what we need and will provide according to His perfect will.

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. Guard your heart and mind by deliberately focusing on God's goodness, His promises, and the many ways He has already been faithful in your life.

Satan's Tactics

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 sidetrack 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).

Satan tries to get us off target

"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 led 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).

Regaining Clear Focus

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 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.

Do I need to regain a clear focus?

Reflection and Application:

What distractions currently hinder your spiritual growth and effectiveness?
Are you prioritizing the urgent over the important in your daily life?
How can you guard against the subtle diversions that cross your path?
What steps will you take to regain and maintain clear focus on God's calling?