Of Distractions
There are many things that the world offers to its inhabitants, none more powerful than distractions for the things eternal. It is sad that we are so easily taken up by what this world offers without even blinking or hesitating. The world is temporary, although it will last a few more generations (perhaps?), it cannot be compared with the eternity that the soul faces upon release from this physical body that we are wearing.
Distractions are everywhere; it has been the basis for the development of sales & marketing within the business industry. Capturing and holding a person’s attention is worth very, very much in our increasingly aggressive economy. It is also worth very much to the evil one who seeks to drag people down with him to the destiny that awaits him.
Studying God’s Word in 1st Peter chapter 1 has opened up my eyes on the consistent need to avoid distractions of this world, and to concentrate on the kingdom to come. It is humbling to do so, for it forces believers to put aside the things that we ‘feel’ are more important (the things of this world). It strips us from our comfort and security and instead casts us into the arms of our eternal Father who alone, rules all things and calls all to account in that last Day of Judgment. That is a reality that is to come, and if we begin to doubt the gravity of God’s concern on us, we will be walking down the wrong pathway and will be unprepared when eternal issues crop up.
This is not an article written to teach, but a reminder for myself to be ‘ready’. Always be vigilant. Be sober. For truly, the enemy is roaring like a lion ready to pounce on its prey when they least expect it. The end result is to be devoured by that lion. What must we do them? Not only to get rid of distractions (for ultimately, that is an impossibility in this fallen world) but to fix our eyes on our Redeemer, who is Christ. To fill our minds with things above, so that the things of this world will be put into its proper context (of God’s universe). Does not negate our worldly responsibilities? Of course not, it is never a basis for us to ignore our responsibilities, but to ensure that all things are done unto and for God’s glory.
Those who fix their eyes to heaven will ensure that their dealings on earth will firmly reflect the image of God, whom they owe everything to.
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