Distractions
In my newsletter this week I would like to talk about how distractions can divert us from reaching our goal. Last week, I took a trip to Nebraska to visit my family which required me to fly. Now some of you know that my greatest fear is flying and it is not something I enjoy doing. However, flying is better than driving 16 hours. So, to me, it’s obvious that flying is the best way to travel long distance. With this said, you can imagine the amount of time I spent in prayer to purge any negative thoughts that would prohibit me from getting on the plane. In my opinion, I believe that the adversary was on the prowl and he used many tactics to create more fear for me. But regardless of how hard he tried; I didn’t allow these emotions to distract my end goal of getting to Nebraska. I did not allow my fear to trump my faith. See, I was going to see my father that I had not seen in four years. The fear was no contest for the love I had for my dad. There were no distractions that could have led me from my goal of seeing my father. How did I overcome my fear? By searching and seeking out Jesus in Scripture. I knew that this would bring peace, reassurance and remind me that my Heavenly Father would be with me through the process. Though the distractions continued to pop up throughout the week, every stumbling block was met with a solution. Likewise, every temptation was affirmed with reassurance. You know why? Because I didn’t allow the distraction and fear to alter my plan. Instead, I sought out wise counsel from the Word and increased my faith. Much like the story above, do you have fears that distract you away from what the Lord is calling you to do? Do you know your purpose in life? Does this purpose also include doing whatever it takes to secure your trip to see your heavenly Father?
Therefore, see that you walk carefully [living life with honor, purpose, and courage; shunning those who tolerate and enable evil], not as the unwise, but as wise [sensible, intelligent, discerning people], making the very most of your time [on earth, recognizing and taking advantage of each opportunity and using it with wisdom and diligence], because the days are [filled with] evil. Therefore, do not be foolish and thoughtless, but understand and firmly grasp what the will of the Lord is.
Ephesians 5:15-17
Chaplain Tracey Burns
Reflection Questions:
Have you prayed and asked what your purpose is and how he can use you?
Do you allow your fears and distractions to divert you from his plan?
What steps will you take to secure your trip so you are able to see the Heavenly Father?
Bonus: Great song (if you are interested) - “Your Love Never Fails”