Psalm 119:37(KJV)
Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken thou me in thy way.
The eyes remain very important in human life. It plays a vital role in seeing; however, it constitutes a severe hindrance to many in their life’s journey. The cry of the Psalmist is that God turns away from his eyes worthless things and gives him sight and life in the ways of God. Worthless things take a front-row seat in our minds and hearts above God bringing distractions. Distractions are the greatest enemy in our journey to empowerment. They are there to disconnect us from our God-given destiny on earth. Distractions prevent us from concentrating; it diverts our attention from focusing on important things. The challenges we face are simply distractions from the enemy to keep us from pursuing our destiny. A wise person sees the goal, anticipates the obstacles, and plans wisely. The Christian race is a battle for the salvation of our souls and eternity. 1 Corinthians 7:35 says, “And this I speak for your own profit; not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is comely, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction.” Distractions will always beg for our attention, but that doesn’t mean we have to give in to them.
Distractions can come in different ways to impede our passion and stop us from being all that the Lord has destined for us. They can come in many forms, mostly the things we want or want to do. There are so many distractions in life that hinder us from bearing fruit. One prime form of distraction the devil uses to derail people’s focus is criticism. When we try to go forward in life, satan tries to distract us by sending critics to criticize us. Critics will question anyone doing something meaningful in life with all manner of discouraging questions. And if we are not careful, we begin to respond to critics to the point of getting distracted, losing focus, and eventually, our destiny. Our response to the critic will add fuel to their fire, and they will criticize us harder and louder than they did before. In other words, do not respond to the critic. The religious establishment of Jesus’ day highly criticized Him. But He never fought back, and neither did He defend Himself. He kept quiet and continued to do the good works God had called Him to do.
Beloved, the energy you need to progress, do not use it to make enemies. The truth is, people are making one thing or the other in life: while some are making an impact and progress, others are making mistakes and enemies. The question is, what are you making in life? Be determined that nothing and no one shifts your focus from God, the Word of God, and your assignment in life, avoiding distractions and distractors like a plague. Stay focused and live a life of undivided devotion to God. Today, be more focused on the bigger picture; you need to be able to recognize the things that tend to get you off track in your Christian walk. Refuse to respond to any form of distraction. Keep your focus on the Lord amidst all the trials, temptations, and other obstacles in your life. As a believer, when you are making an impact with the Gospel, you will face persecution; there will be those who will be against you or even hate you, but don’t be surprised. Keep your focus on Jesus, keep your eyes on the prize, and don’t be distracted by life situations. Seek the things above, not earthly things that will end you in hell. You must make up your mind and be more determined to fulfill the calling of God. Silence the ignorant criticisms of men by continuing to do good and to live by faith. And when all their foolish words fade away, you will still be standing powerful.
O Lord, turn my eyes and mind away from that which is empty and valueless. I reject every form of distraction in Jesus’ Name.