Distractions from the World

“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.”—Philippians 3:13–14 NLT

Born blind, Ward Marston could have become resigned to a life of helpless dependency. But he discovered this handicap became an advantage. Instead of complaining or feeling defeated, he realized that blindness gave him greater sensitivity to sound.

He applied this gift to restore older recordings with results that often were startling. One critic commented how the reissues he produced sounded more vivid and lifelike than the originals. His handicap actually enhanced his ability to concentrate. He discovered an ability to focus and avoid distractions.

His observations confirm the results of a study that revealed that people blind from birth are often able to develop superior abilities at using other senses like hearing. They can engage parts of the brain usually devoted to vision, developing heightened sensitivity.

These insights have relevance for our spiritual lives: We can become obsessed with distractions that dominate our minds and hearts. They slow us down, frustrate us, and prevent us from experiencing the blessings God has promised. They can capture our thoughts, consume our energies, and point us toward the wrong priorities.

Paul advised: Focus on the truths in God’s Word. Confess His promises. Seek first His Kingdom. Eliminate distractions. Ask God to help you develop the right priorities. Learn from the past, but don’t be fixated on it. Move forward.

Reflection Question: What’s distracting you from working toward your God-given goals?