I have been affected greatly over the years by the faithful example my parents set in their daily reading of the bible. At some point in their lives they chose to make it part of their daily routine. I'm sure there were times they found themselves distracted just as I often am. A number of years ago I asked my dad what the key was to his faithful quiet time with the Lord. "Without it I'd be lost, it's my life", he said.
If you're like me there are times when it's difficult to stay focused during your devotions. Well meaning, I pull out my bible, pen, notebook, and sit in my quiet place, and my intention is much like Psalm 119:15 I will meditate on Your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. And then, like a slow infection, distractions creep in drawing my attention away from The One I came to spend time with.
We've all seen it and most likely been 'infected' personally by it. Two people make a plan to get together for coffee to spend time with each other and ones cell phone rings. You might be left sitting there listening to your friend having a conversation or texting with another person. What about in church? With the bible on many of our iPhones, more and more people are using that instead of bringing their actual bibles to church. I'm certainly not against that, and have it on mine too, but the problem is with the distractions that come along with it. I've noticed it a number of times in church. Someone is using their iPhone to follow along with the scripture reading and they get a text. Instantly distracted, they read it, and within a split second their focus has changed from God's word to someone else. It's easy for 'life' to distract us from the Giver of Life.
I've been challenging myself to be more aware of the distractions I've been allowing to creep in. Things that pull me away from my focused time with God. He desires my undivided attention. It's in these times when I make God my sole priority that I've found the deeper riches in my relationship with Him.
How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart, do not let me stray away from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Praise be to you, O Lord; teach me your decrees.
Such an encouraging message and a reminder of the example we are as parents! I too am distracted far too many times.
Thank you! God lead me here, I'm sure of it now. This has been on my heart all week, as I have put off my visits with Him most of the week for other things that seem to keep coming up. I keep telling myself I need to just sit down and take the time. Your dad was so right!
May I be more alert to things that keep me from sitting down to listen.
While at first I thought this was going to be a post about a bread recipe, it is something even better--something I definitely needed to read! I always have great intentions but do not follow through with daily quiet time. Thank you for the inspiration.
I'm not sure why I should be surprised...but reading Scripture on cell phones in church?? We haven't had to deal with that, though we're struggling with the upcoming move to iPads in the elementary school. It's the exact same issue of distraction! Anyway, thank you for sharing your thoughts and timely words. Much appreciated!