Uncommen: DistractedSample

More Than 8 Seconds

As we wrap up our devotion, I thought it would be fitting to finish with James talking about being double-minded. James starts how I always begin my prayer time with God by asking for wisdom. There are so many ways I could spend my time, but I want to know where God wants me to spend my time. If I'm chasing down this topic or that, I'm just like the verse says, "I'm like a wave in the sea that is driven and tossed about." 

In a study in 2018, they discovered that today's adults' average attention span is 8 seconds. How are we supposed to experience the inexhaustible glory of God if all we give Him is 8 seconds of our attention? No wonder James ends this passage describing this person as "unstable in all his ways." 
 

So what can we do to avoid being distracted in our time with God?

• Set aside a specific time to read God's word each day. Choose a time you know you won't be interrupted.
• Get on a reading plan and set up a reminder to help keep you accountable. You may even want to do a reading plan with another person or group of people to hold you responsible.
• Journal your thoughts on what you read.
• Discuss your reading with others
   

If we can set aside time to binge-watch a Netflix series, a football game, or any number of time-consuming activities, then we can set aside time for God. 

I think we would all be surprised how much better life is when focused on God alone.

At the start of this study, we defined distraction. Let's take a look at the word Focus.
 

Focus: noun - the center of interest or activity. The state or quality of having or producing clear visual definition. verb - become able to see clearly
 

Uncommen Questions:

Do you have a process that helps you tune out all the distractions of the outside world?

Do you have a dedicated time that you spend with God each day?

Uncommen Challenge:

I challenge both you and me to intentionally set aside time to focus our hearts and minds upon God, to spend time with the lover of our soul and learn of His will for our lives.

Scripture Reference:
James 1:5-8

We hope this plan encourages you. To learn more about our ministry, visit us @ uncommen.org.