The Deceptive Gap Between The Good Thing vs. The God Thing
LIFE REFERENCE: LUKE 10:38-42
Luke 10:40AMP
But Martha was very busy and distracted with all of her serving responsibilities; and she approached Him and said, “Lord, is it of no concern to You that my sister has left me to do the serving alone? Tell her to help me and do her part.”
Biblical Definition of Distraction
A distraction is something that takes your attention away from what you’re supposed to be doing. … Distraction comes from the Latin dis-, “apart,” and trahere, “drag.” So, distraction is when you’re dragged away from your task.
The word in Luke 10:40 (περιεσπᾶτο) in the Greek literally means to drag all around, to draw away and to be driven about mentally. Often that’s what a distraction can feel like…we are being drawn away from purpose, or unable to focus.
And this I say for your own profit, not that I may put a leash on you, but for what is proper, and that you may serve the Lord without distraction
1 Corinthians 7:35 NKJV
The word used here (aperispástōs) in the Greek means without distraction, or the opposite which is full devotion. Paul is instructing people about marriage and saying that things of this world can distract us from being fully devoted.
Food For Thought
What are some of the distractions you have noticed in your life?
Have any of your distractions placed you or others in danger?
Distraction interferes with our concentration and focus. Distractions can be dangerous, like the 65-mile-per-hour weaving car that day. Some distractions are not as dangerous—like picking up a magazine to dust the end table and instead sitting down for thirty minutes to read that magazine. Admit it. We’ve all been distracted—many times.
Look at the list below to determine the distractions that most impact your focus away from the "God-Thing". That's the THING, the inspiration God places in your heart. How can you control these diversions?
- Media and entertainment
- Technology
- Relationships and Expectations
- Recreation
- Work
- Hobbies
- Money and possessions
- Worry and fears
- Everyday routine
- Pleasing others
The Deception of Distraction
Most Christians can spot the “evil” trap, yet many mistakenly are distracted by the “good” thing away from fulfilling the GOD-THING. It can mask as—
“They called today and need me to help with the grandchildren.”
“The xyz Team at church just called and needs me.”
“OMG, My Favorite show is doing a marathon!” …
These decisions can result in you helping others achieve THEIR goals at the risk or sacrifice of never achieving yours!
The Big Question
What is the God-thing you are inspired to do…yet distraction is pulling you away?
Ways To Overcome Distractions
We will all be distracted at times. We are human. However, there are some things we can do to minimize distractions, especially those that interfere with our God inspired goals. Here are some tips to help you lessen the distractions, end frustration and begin moving towards the God-thing.
- Minimize distractions by setting a time and place.
- Remove temptations. Leave your phone/electronics in another room.
- Ask God to help you focus.
- Write down any distractions (errands, worries, etc.) for later.
- Read and meditate on the Word first.
- Keep a prayer list or journal.
- Pray out loud.
- Invite God to order your steps for the day
PROMISES TO OVERCOME THE SPIRIT OF DISTRACTION:
“For God did not give us a Spirit of fear but of power and love and self-control.” 2 Timothy 1:7 NET
“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.” Ephesians 5:15-17NIV
“A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich.” Prov 10:4 ESV
“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9 ESV
“Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.” James 4:14 ESV
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” James 1:5 ESV
“What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be[a] against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?” Romans 8:31,32 ESV
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