I feel like the biggest thing keeping us from rockstar faith is distraction. Often we compare our faith to where we wish it to be only to fall short time and time again. We forget who controls these things in our lives. If our schedule is bursting, we prioritize. If we have an overwhelming hobby, then we cut back. Yet faith is tricky. Working with teens, I fear they are blinded by the amount of useless distractions. Video games, sports, Netflix, are all great, but are rarely used in moderation. Essentially, if our faith is not where we like it to be, then we are openly and defiantly worshipping something else besides Creator God. And of this, I am guilty. I too went on quite the bender when the new season of “House of Cards” dropped. I too choose sleep over study many days.
So how can we cut through the distraction?
First, admit you are distracted and giving value to things which in the end are meaningless. Things and people are great, but we must be brutally honest with our affections. If I rarely spend time with my spouse or kids, do I love them? Same goes with our walk with Christ.
Second, figure out your distractions. Each of us have our brand of distraction. For some it’s working out, for some it’s video games, Netflix, or an unhealthy adoration for sports. Figure out what you cannot live without, and that is probably a sign. Then figure out roughly how much time you spend on said distraction. This can be painful.
Third, understand that you are human and in need of redemption. Figure out if your distraction has a holy value. Can I use it as worship time with God, or a way to connect with others in a spiritual way? If not, then be careful. Enjoy running? Then use that time to meditate and pray. Enjoy a specific TV show? Then try discussing the theological implications with a friend or in your journal. Something awesome happens when we can combine the profane things of this world with the sacred things of God.
Today, be present. Fight distraction and embrace peace.
Matt simon blog 