Distraction and Destruction
Most folks start the day with a list of projects that they want to tackle. Yet, on the way to achieving their purposes, distraction rises up. Not all distraction is worthless or troublesome. There are distractions which are wonderfully spiritual. Some distraction is very rewarding and perhaps represents even greater value than the original intended purposes of the day. The distraction simply needs to be what is authorized in Christ (Colossians 3:17). Regardless of its worth, distraction makes itself ever present. Consider for a brief moment the brief exhortation of focus from the Hebrew author:
Do not let distraction avert your eyes from your true and eternal purpose.
Hebrews 12:1-3 – Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.
We should never be distracted from constantly submitting our lives to Jesus. He is our Example, our Savior, and our Defender. He certainly had distractions in His life. His physical family wanted His time. Everywhere He went People upon Him to heal them. Multitudes followed him to hear Him speak. Crowds sought him out hoping to see miracles or be fed. The Pharisaical Jews sought him to trick Him or cause Him to stumble in His ultimate purpose so that they would not lose their place of power. His inner circle of disciples represented distraction of weak faith, puzzled understanding, and even deception. Satan tried Him and tempted Him when he felt there was an opportune time. Physical fear and the reality of the pain of the flesh made their calling as well as He unwaveringly came to the cross. However, the distractions and suffering that Jesus endured provided understanding of the worth of submission to the Father (Hebrews 5:8). Jesus sits at the right hand of God because of His constant and steady control in keeping His eyes on the Father. Today, our eyes need to be constantly looking toward Jesus.
Destruction is the result of worldly distraction being our ultimate pursuit (2 Corinthians 4:3-4). Destruction results from trying to legitimize evil distraction as good (Isaiah 5:20) and turn scriptural wisdom into earthly wisdom (2 Peter 3:16) so we can pursue worldly distraction. Destruction comes from a heart problem that wants to turn back to the world (Luke 17:32). However, if you are seeking God (Matthew 6:33), spiritual distraction will not keep you from your God, nor will destruction await you. Submission of the heart, soul, mind, and strength to God will lovingly have the kingdom of the Father in view. Be of good cheer in the midst of distraction and boldly march onward (John 16:33).