When you’re cleaning the house, making lunches, or even just trying to relax, do you find yourself worrying about something or thinking several steps ahead instead of enjoying what’s in front of you?
I know many of us can relate in letting our minds wander throughout the day. Thinking about other things while doing something seems normal, but once this habit forms, we can become overwhelmed, distracted, and lack clear focus.
Distraction comes from the Latin dis-, “away or reversing force,” and trahere, “drag.” So distraction is when you’re dragged away from your task at hand. Dragged away? The visual seems like an evil plot against my will.
So distraction is when you’re dragged away from your task at hand.
Then I realized it was that bad, stealing my peace and contentment. God started working on me, teaching me how to take these thoughts captive and grow my trust in Him.
Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28–30.
It started with my daily tasks.
When I got up in the morning and went for a walk, I used to think of what’s ahead for my day, pray about various things, what I need to plan for the weekend, or what can I look forward to. The Holy Spirit gently STOPPED me and reminded me that the walk was for exercise and enjoying time with my husband. It was also meant to give my mind a breather before I started my busy day.
When making dinner, I used to think about what my husband and I would watch on TV afterward or how our daughter is doing or what I did yesterday. That gentle STOP came again. While I’m cooking, I should pay attention since it’s on a hot stove. I can enjoy cooking and serving others. I can be fully present. Even enjoying the food God has provided for me was important, instead of eating quickly so I could get on with the rest of my evening.
One of the most difficult lessons was when things were quiet. I was so used to filling up the silence with something – making a list, listening to music, or scrolling my social media page. What about sitting with God and letting Him quiet my soul?
One of the most difficult lessons was when things were quiet.
On Sundays when I came home after discipling young women, I would mull over who is doing well and growing in Christ and in what area, then what we should focus on the next time – the gentle STOP came once more. What about getting some rest after getting up early, going to church, then ministering to others? Or what about paying attention to my husband while he’s speaking to me? Enjoying some much needed time with him?
Time, care, and attention should be paid to what we are currently doing. It’s part of being content and having a mind of peace. It’s also part of loving God.
Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content. Philippians 4:11 NKJV
Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. Mark 12:30
The Difference I’ve Noticed
I don’t feel overwhelmed – now that’s saying something as a wife and mom! I trust that God will guide me in every task and that I don’t need to worry. I’m not perfect at this – I’m still growing, but I’ve noticed that I’m more content.
So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:31-33 NIV
I’m an example to my family with a peaceful and calm demeanor, paying careful attention to their needs.
All things are permitted, but not all things are of benefit. All things are permitted, but not all things build people up. 1 Corinthians 10:23 NASB
I’m experiencing more joy because I’m not so bogged down with the world’s expectations.
The Lord is my strength and my shield; My heart trusted in Him, and I am helped; Therefore my heart greatly rejoices, And with my song I will praise Him. Psalm 28:7 NKJV
My relationship with God has deepened. Before, there were so many thoughts flying through my head that this “noise” sometimes crowded out enjoying His presence.
Show me the right path, O LORD; point out the road for me to follow. Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you. Psalm 25:4-5 NLT
During prayer, I can keep my attention on God and what is being prayed.
I read an article, Giving God our Full & Undivided Attention,* where the author encouraged, “The more we practice focusing our attention on the ordinary tasks that make up our day, the more we’ll be able to keep our attention fixed on the extraordinary task of listening to God in prayer.”
God desires our full attention. When we are obedient to Him, we reap the blessings that He promises. Most importantly, we revel in our close relationship with Him, including His amazing love and goodness.
You guide me with your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny. Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you more than anything on earth. Psalm 73:24-25 NLT
*Giving God Our Full & Undivided Attention by Christopher Hazell
How has this blog better equipped you to deal with distraction? Comment below. Also, share any encouragement.
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Sue Iacoboni received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from Colorado State University. She now lives in Southern California with her husband of 29 years who works in education. Their young adult daughter lives close and is using her degree in fashion design to further God’s Kingdom by helping women in need. Sue leads a college & career Moms in Prayer group, is a leader in the young adult ministry at her church, and disciples young women in the Word of God and prayer.