Distraction is a tactic the enemy uses to take our focus off what’s most important. And as you and I both know, distractions are everywhere. From the latest headlines to the latest trends, our minds are constantly being pulled in different directions, leaving us frazzled and disoriented. Can you relate?
Perhaps it’s time to refocus, to limit outside noise and be intentional in our relationship with God and others. If you’re ready to close the door on distraction, here are 5 essential things to focus on as spring approaches.
Seeking Him First
“But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also.” (Matthew 6:33 AMP)
The demands of our current circumstances often take precedence over seeking God. Daily, we rise to the occasion, caring for our families, meeting work deadlines, and handling countless responsibilities. It doesn’t take long to feel like we’re running on a treadmill at high speed with no end in sight.
Seeking God first should be non-negotiable. Just as our bodies need nourishment, our spirits need time in God’s presence. In John 6:32-33, Jesus said, “Very truly I tell you, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is the bread that comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.”
When we eat freely from the bread of life, we are better nourished for the journey. This requires ample time in God’s Word, reading, meditating, and receiving His truth. And as we learn more about His eternal character, our hearts are focused more on heaven rather than earth. Our attitudes have changed from trudging through life to experiencing the fullness of life in Christ.
Praying and Praising
“Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name.” (Hebrews 13:15 ESV)
If you’re like me, you offer prayers on the regular, asking God for help, protection, and guidance. Fortunately, we have a good Father who hears us when we call.
But prayer is a two-way street, isn't it? It’s not only petitioning the Lord for what we need, but it’s also listening for His still small voice. He has wonderful things to share with us, if only we would pause long enough to hear Him. Amen?
Let’s increase prayer and praise this spring, calming our minds and listening for the Holy Spirit’s wisdom. Let’s fill our homes (and hearts) with songs of praise, turning on worship music instead of the television.
Start with Psalm 150, which says, “Praise the Lord. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness. Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre, praise him with timbrel and dancing, praise him with the strings and pipe, praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord.”
Loving Well
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” (John 13:34 ESV)
Sadly, there’s a lot of hate in the world, and it seems to be growing by the day. Even as Christians, we get drawn into contentions that aren’t beneficial for anyone. And while we are called to speak truth, we are also called to love well.
Loving well means:
We prefer others above ourselves. (Philippians 2:3)
We put our words into action. (1 John 3:18)
We serve others in humility. (Galatians 5:13)
Let’s make springtime a season of lavish love for God and each other. With kindness, compassion, and grace, let’s invest in others like never before. We can absolutely stand firm on the Bible without compromise, but in a way that draws people to God rather than repelling them.
When tempted to join fruitless arguments, remind yourself, I choose to focus on God’s love in this situation.
Sowing Seed
“Sow for yourselves righteousness; reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground, for it is time to seek the Lord, till He comes and rains righteousness on you.” (Hosea 10:12 NKJV)
Our bank statements say a lot about what’s most important to us. Apart from everyday expenses, we can quickly spot frivolous things we prioritize.
It was the prophet Malachi who said, “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.” (Malachi 3:10)
Some would say this Bible passage is no longer a requirement for New Testament believers. But it really comes down to the heart, doesn't it? It’s about generously sowing the seed we’ve been given. We sow through:
Tithes and offerings
Time and talent
Righteousness and mercy
Compassion and grace
The opportunities we have to sow seed on the fallow ground of this world are plentiful. Each day, we have the chance to open our hands and sow in grace. God might ask us to give to a charity, serve in our community, or be the hands and feet of Jesus to someone in need. When our focus shifts from obligation to generosity, we are free to sow as the Lord leads.
Taking Good Care of Your Body
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
Health goals are essential, but it’s more than losing weight and building muscle. The Bible encourages us to take good care of what God has given us. I believe this is not only to honor the Lord, but to be strengthened for the purpose He’s called us to.
The key phrase in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 is “temples of the Holy Spirit.” When viewed from this perspective, we quickly realize our bodies were created for far more than diets and exercise. Every part of us was created to glorify God through the mighty purpose of making Him known.
By staying hydrated, nourished, agile, and strong, we are ready to move forward when the Holy Spirit leads. We have more confidence when we’re eating healthy and maintaining our weight. We become more available when we’ve had adequate sleep and are energetic for our tasks.
Instead of focusing on a specific body image, focus on better health for better service to God. It’s freeing to let go of trying to look the part and instead live the part God has marked out for us.
Let’s pray: Lord, please give me the self-discipline needed to remove distractions and focus on what’s most important. I want to step fully into Your purpose for my life. In Jesus’ holy name, amen.
Photo credit: ©Pixabay/JillWellington
