by Sharon Tubbs 

His eyes are dark, intense and slightly moist with emotion. “I don’t think I’ve ever loved anyone this much,” he says, as his arm, strong yet gentle, draws me into his chest. I yield and tilt my head for the softest kiss. Then he—

Oh, wait… Sorry. Uh… got a little distracted there. I’m supposed to be writing something spiritually enlightening for the Beautiful blog. But something happens these days when I try to focus on what God is calling me to do. An ugly enemy named Distraction draws my mind elsewhere—like to a romantic dinner with this make-believe fantastically suave sold-out-for-the-Lord man of my dreams. Yes, Distraction always interrupts with random thoughts and phone calls. Emails, too. Even if I’m busy, I can’t wait to see what’s in that email. It could be an emergency! (Although it never really is.)

Occasionally, Distraction gets sneaky and masquerades as people who constantly need me. They want to talk about the same problems they had last week, last year—the problems they still haven’t taken steps to solve. And I must set aside what I’m doing to listen, right? At times, Distraction comes as small fires that only I am capable of putting out. (Or is that just my ego wanting to do it all?) Sometimes he emerges in the guise of seemingly insignificant things that—

Oops, stepped away for a sec. Got the urge to watch a Jimmy Fallon video on YouTube. Love me some Jimmy. He is too funny!

So what was I saying? Yes, Distraction may appear so harmless that it lures me away before I realize it.

Have you ever been there? Have you found yourself hard-pressed to focus on God and doing His will? Of course, we should make time for rest, fun and fellowship with others. The problem comes when we look back on your week and wonder what we’ve really accomplished for the Lord.

The Bible compels us to have a one-track mind. As Apostle Paul said,

But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me… I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. –Ephesians 3:12b-14 (NLT)

We should also make the most of our time:

Look carefully then how you walk! Live purposefully and worthily and accurately, not as the unwise and witless, but as wise (sensible, intelligent people), Making the very most of the time [buying up each opportunity], because the days are evil. –Ephesians 5:15-16 (AMP)

If, like me, you struggle with distraction and focus, join me in prayer:

Lord, we thank you for making each of us unique women, with a unique purpose that will bring you glory. Now strengthen us daily to keep you at the center of our thoughts and actions. Help us to “press” toward your calling on our lives. Guide us in making the most of our time, so that our lives glorify you. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

What distracts you? Share your comments below! 

Sharon Tubbs works with the Women’s Ministry at Grace Family Church. She is also an inspirational speaker, author and business owner. As she continually strives to reach her potential in Christ, Sharon’s joy comes from inspiring others to do the same by truly seeking and knowing Him.