Interruption

Interruption

4:11

“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth,” 2 Timothy 2:15, NIV.

Have you ever sat down with the sincere intent of spending time with God, only to experience one interruption after another? These distractions are probably more common than you think.

(In fact, if this is true for you, let others know by liking this devo below.)

Satan tries to keep us from studying God’s word. This is true. But allowing distractions and interruptions can also highlight our own personal need for a bit more self-control. I know this is true for me.

I can sit down and tell myself, “It’s just one text. Once I get it out of the way, I will be able to fully focus. ”An hour later, I texted, Facebooked, visited WhatsApp and my Bible still remained closed.

Distractions happen. But allowing the distraction to become a full interruption is something we can prevent. One thing I now do is keep a pad of paper next to my journal so I can write down things I need to remember to do after my time with God concludes.

For example, a thought about paying a certain bill is a distraction. Turning on the computer to pay the bill is an interruption. I would write down, “Bills.” And then I am able to ignore it.

Are we being distracted, or have we allowed our time with God to be purposefully interrupted?

Let’s agree that tomorrow when we sit down to read the Bible, we will put on blinders to block out our world. We will use our hard copies of our Bibles, if need be, instead of our phones, if they are the root of our distraction, and train ourselves to focus. Even if it’s just for ten minutes. Ten minutes with God is better than an hour of pretending to be in His presence.

Father,

You desire to have a relationship with those whom You have created. We thank You for this gift. Being with You, spending time getting to know You has changed my life.

I know Your word is true. I know Your character is sound and good and right. Because You have spent time with me showing me this is so.

Thank You that when You said, “Draw near to Me and I will draw near to you,” James 4:8, it’s reliable and factual. You have every time.

Thank You that You have no favorites, and show no partiality towards Your kids, You love us all.

Help us to love You with the same earnest love You have for us.

Help us focus on You, to train ourselves to be godly, (1 Timothy 4:6-10) for Your name’s sake.

We love You, Father.

Amen.