Recently while driving on the interstate, I noticed the car behind me gently swerving over the lines as it drew closer. My rearview mirror revealed a woman putting on lipstick while driving. As I carefully maneuvered into the neighboring lane to let her pass, my mind turned to how quickly distracted driving can turn bad—even fatal.
Distractions can also prove damaging to our relationship with God. I’ve grown to love the ease of reading the Bible in the mornings on my iPad. But if not attentive, I can quickly find myself reading emails, clicking on an article, or checking Facebook.
All around us things are vying for our attention—tugging to pull the center of our hearts away from God and His presence, and on to other things. While many distractions are fleeting and harmless, others can rock our world and change the path we’re on.
In Psalm 73, we find Asaph questioning God about the prosperity of the wicked, among other things. As he focuses more and more on the world around him he becomes increasingly distressed and miserable. In verse 21 he says:
Then I realized that my heart was bitter, and I was all torn up inside.
Finally, as Asaph returns his attention to God, he says:
Then I went into your sanctuary, O God, and I finally understood the destiny of the wicked. Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you more than anything on earth. My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever. (Psalm 73:17, 25-26)
Most of us need God’s help in dealing with distractions and keeping priorities in check. When unfocused thoughts flow freely, how easy to become anxious and lose our peace in God.
Many distractions and anxieties vanish in the light of God’s presence. We realize we’re not alone. We have a high priest and Lord who understands our weaknesses. We need only turn to Him.
So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most. (Hebrews 4:14-16)
Problems lose their grip as we draw near to the Lord, giving Him first place in our hearts. He gives grace to help in our time of need.
In His presence we find rest to our souls. (Exodus 33:14)
What distractions do you contend with that try to pull you away from God?
Copyright © 2015 Cheryl Elton
Thanks, Cheryl….love the Scriptures (and the photo). Good to think about.
What refreshing scriptures to consider! I just read all of Psalm 73, and realize that Asaph was very distracted, looking at others who seemed to be doing better than he was (verses 3-12). I realize that I may do the same thing more often than I like – I need to look at Jesus instead, especially when I get these thoughts.
I really like the photo – I felt the presence of God just looking at it.
If Asaph lived today, I’m thinking he might be spending too much time on Facebook, ha ha. I’m hearing of studies that reveal FB can lead to depression for just that reason – everybody looks like they are doing great (and maybe you are not.) Definitely something I need to keep check on as well, as I draw close to the Lord and stay thankful. Thanks for your insights, Ken!