Distractions Causing Distance [From God]Sýnishorn

Introduction

Welcome to Day 3 of “Distractions Causing Distance [From God]!” In yesterday’s devotion, we discussed how to defeat worry! Today, we will introduce our second distraction–The Need to Disconnect.

Devotion

Distraction #2: The Need to Disconnect

Now that we are free from condemnation and we have kicked worry to the curb, let’s talk about another distraction that becomes more complicated every day. A lot of us are distracted by the need to disconnect.

So I had to do some self-reflection to prepare for this one, and I ask you to join me. Take out your phone, tablet, or whatever device you use, and list out all the applications that take time from your day. My list went something like this: Instagram, Facebook, Skype, WhatsApp, Xbox Live, Zoom, Marco Polo, GroupMe, LinkedIn, news app, WeatherBug, and Gmail. Wow!

That was alarming to me because there are still only 24 hours in a day (and I spend about 16 of them either sleeping or working)! With that in mind, I felt a little better because my research told me that I am not alone. In fact, a recent study showed that the average American checks their phone 96 times a day or once every ten minutes. To compound this issue, social distancing and quarantines have given us an even more insatiable desire to remain connected and socialize.

It is very apparent how this distraction has caused distance from God, because, as I said before, there are still 24 hours in a day!

So how do we disconnect so that we can focus on God? Well, I will start by saying, we talk/socialize too much and oftentimes, it is done in the wrong way.

The right to speak is important; saying things at the right time in the right manner is even more important. Proverbs 13:3 says, “Those who control their tongue will have a long life; opening your mouth can ruin everything.”

So how do we defeat this distraction?

1. Watch your words. Words matter, because words mean things. Proverbs 15:1 (NLT) says, “A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.”
2. Say less. Connect less. Be Wise. Proverbs 17:27 (NLT) says, “A truly wise person uses few words…”
   • Words are like dollar bills. They should be spent wisely because we cannot take them back. Yep, that means even on social media…especially on social media! I am not saying we should not socialize/connect, but when done in excess, it drives a wedge between us and God. Simply put, we just don’t have time for God.
3. Don’t look like a fool. Mark Twain said it best, “Never argue with a fool. Onlookers may not be able to tell the difference.” Because we are so connected, we often find ourselves caught in a constant debate (most times publicly). Which leads me to the last tip to fight this distraction:
4. Three T’s to check before you speak: Time… Type… Tone

• Time: Is it the right time to speak or should you just be quiet?
  • Take inventory.: How much of your time have you spent socializing in comparison to growing your relationship with God?
• Type: Ephesians 4:29 (NLT) says, “Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.”
  • What kind of conversations are you having? Are you giving encouraging words to everyone you encounter?
• Tone: Are you addressing the situation in the best manner possible? Are you using the “gentle answer” described in Proverbs 15:1?

Think about these things and challenge yourself to disconnect from the rush, rat race, and rigmarole of life. Disconnect from distractions so you can reconnect and build a healthy relationship with God.

Prayer

Father, thank You for your Grace, Mercy, and Kindness towards us. We realize that busyness, drama, and life circumstances constantly pull us away from You, and for that, we apologize. Father, give us the strength, wisdom, and wherewithal to disconnect from the many daily distractions we encounter so we can connect with You. Thank You for continuing to love us! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Thanks for reading! Stay tuned for Day 4!