Action or Distraction: What’s Getting My Attention?

Today is one of those days when I am particularly–and easily–distracted. I had grand plans for all that I wanted to accomplish today. And I’ve done some of the things. But not the things that require the most focus.

I think that distraction is one of Satan’s greatest–and easiest–tools to use against us. And I believe it is getting easier for him to use it, because our attention spans are getting shorter all the time. There are billions of voices/images vying for our attention at all times. I even get distracted from my distractions! Do you ever pick up your phone to look something up and then find yourself reading an article about something you didn’t even know to be interested in, then find yourself caught up in reading an online argument or purchasing something you just realized you “must” have? And oh yeah–What was I wanting to look up in the first place…? No idea.

So much distraction. So many loud voices. It’s no wonder we can be hard of hearing the only voice that really matters. It is still and small and doesn’t force itself on us. But if we are tuned in to it, we are much more likely to stay focused on what matters and what is truly life-giving. The voice of the Holy Spirit offers guidance and direction on a daily basis for those who follow Jesus. The notifications don’t [usually] come with dings or banners, but they do come regularly.

I have become so trained by my phone to respond to every lit-up message and alert, that I hardly even think before I act. I wonder what my life would look like if that were how in-tune with the Spirit I am? If I heard His voice every time He spoke? If I responded immediately? If I acted in obedience to each call to action?

What if we all did?