Distractions. How many of you deal with distractions during the day? I have found that I am easily distracted. A radio playing, a conversation in the next room, the television in the background…all of these things can get me off task and distracted.
These may all sound like silly little things that happen throughout our day but distractions can be much bigger than this and can distract or derail us from the most important task that we’ve been given.
Romans 12:9-21 talks about love in action. “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
These are instructions for us. Are you fulfilling these tasks? Or are you distracted? Are you consumed with the things of this world? The news? Movies? Sports? Are you distracted by controversies? Do you look for ways to disagree with others rather than loving them or showing them grace? Here are two words for you…STOP IT!!!!
There are much more important things at stake here! We are told in Matthew 28:19-20, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
This should be our priority. Remove the distractions in your life that are hindering you from your task. And please please please…love one another!