Focused

My attention can be so easily swayed. I have trouble staying on task sometimes because I look at the big picture ALL of the time! I end up starting a bunch of things at the same time leaving me with several started and nothing complete. Take cleaning for example- I’ll start cleaning one room, then notice something in another room that needs my attention. Before you know it I’m way off course with nothing to show for my time. Remembering to just focus on the next thing helps me to stay on course. Routines and lists help me tremendously. I have no idea where I would be without my lists!

Can I get an AMEN from all my fellow list makers???

I need to remember to keep the main THING, the MAIN thing.

A sure fire way to stir the enemy is to get your prayer life in order and spend time in the Word. Much like praying for patience. Be ready when you ask for that one! You have to be vigilant—the enemy is always looking for a cracked door to get in and grab hold.

“Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.” 1 Peter 5:8 (NLT)

When you determine to follow the Lord’s leading and it’s impacting others for Christ-watch out! Satan loves to render us ineffective by our fears and insecurities. He preys on the tiniest lack of trust in our Heavenly Father. The enemy will even use mundane everyday “life” things to get you off course. To shift your focus and priorities. As believers, we can no longer be claimed as the enemy’s, but he can use other things to paralyze us into inaction and furthering the kingdom by being distracted.

Here is a great example from the Bible of yielding to distractions versus the Lord:

“Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:38-42 (ESV)

I definitely can identify with Martha. She spent so much time being concerned about all the details and distractions around her that she completely missed out on getting to know Jesus! Mary, on the other hand, realized that Jesus deserved her full attention and the details faded into the background.

Remember what’s most important—Don’t forget to keep the main THING, the MAIN thing!

Love you,

Diane

Diane Haupt is a stay-at-home wife and mother and serves on the board of directors for The Connection. She is a fellow sinner saved by the grace of God and is an active member of LCBC Church in Waynesboro, PA where she serves on the worship team. She has a passionate desire given by the Holy Spirit to mentor and disciple other women.  You can email her at connectingwomenwithgod@gmail.com.