Avoid the Noise

Every day we are grateful for Your grace

Don't wanna get dragged in by the world's distractions

The distractions of this world are a main hindrance to gratitude. In this day and age, we are bombarded with constant glimpses into the lives of others through the media, the internet and social media. While information is necessary and can be used to our benefit, over-saturation of outside information can be detrimental to our adoration towards God. Sometimes, we let the noise of this world speak louder than the Voice of our Holy God.

Not only are we distracted by the information we ingest, but we also get caught up in comparison. We see the highlight reel of someone else's life and compare it to the behind-the-scenes footage of our everyday lives. We set unrealistic goals based on other people instead of seeking God for His purpose for our lives.

In addition to overexposure to information and comparison, we look for instant gratification. But, if you look at many of our favorite people from the Bible, it's clear that God operates from an eternal perspective and not on a human timetable. Joseph always inspires me because he was seventeen when he saw the dreams that got him sold into slavery by his brothers (Genesis 37:2, 27-28). He knew he had a calling on his life, but didn't start to see the fulfillment of that calling until he was thirty years old (Genesis 41:46). Yet, he continued to trust in and praise God.

God's blessings are not found in instant gratification, but in the journey to the dream. The blessings are also not for us; they are so that we can be a blessing to someone else. Imagine if Joseph let the noise of distraction drown out the truth that God was with him (Genesis 39:2). It would have literally changed the course of history.

So, here are some steps, laid out in 100,000 Heartbeats, to help avoid the noise:

1. Being still in His Presence. Take the time to intentionally sit in God’s Presence and rest in Him. Sit silently and listen. You may hear something in your spirit, or you may gain new insight while reading God’s Word.
2. A prayer every morning. Be sure to include prayer in your routine before the start of your day. Seek the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness before heading out into the world. (Matthew 6:33)
3. Rely on Him. We often try to do way too much in our own power. That leads to frustration, which clouds our focus. Relying on God allows us to recognize more moments full of His grace and mercy, in good and hard times.

An attitude of gratitude requires that we appreciate the small and great, and avoid the noise of this world (Psalm 103:2). Every heartbeat, every breath, is a reminder and an opportunity to express our gratitude to God by giving Him praise!

Lord God,

Thank You that Your Truth outweighs the noise of this world. Remind us that though we are in this world, we are not of it. Help us to see Your perspective as we spend time with You and lean into You. We thank You and praise You for being our Gracious and Loving God. In the Precious Name of Jesus, Amen!