Topical Encyclopedia
In the biblical context, distraction refers to the state of having one's attention diverted from spiritual priorities and responsibilities. The Scriptures provide numerous examples and teachings that highlight the dangers and consequences of being distracted, particularly in one's relationship with God.
Biblical Examples of Distraction1.
Martha and Mary (Luke 10:38-42): One of the most illustrative examples of distraction is found in the account of Martha and Mary. As Jesus visited their home, Martha was "distracted with much serving" (
Luke 10:40), while Mary chose to sit at Jesus' feet and listen to His teaching. Jesus gently rebuked Martha, saying, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, and it will not be taken away from her" (
Luke 10:41-42). This passage underscores the importance of prioritizing spiritual nourishment over worldly concerns.
2.
Peter Walking on Water (Matthew 14:28-31): Another example is Peter's experience of walking on water towards Jesus. Initially, Peter's focus was on Christ, enabling him to perform the miraculous. However, when he became distracted by the wind and waves, he began to sink. Jesus immediately reached out to save him, saying, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?" (
Matthew 14:31). This incident highlights how distractions can lead to doubt and fear, diverting believers from their faith journey.
Teachings on Avoiding Distraction1.
Single-minded Devotion (Matthew 6:33): Jesus taught the importance of seeking God's kingdom and righteousness above all else. "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you" (
Matthew 6:33). This teaching encourages believers to maintain a singular focus on spiritual matters, trusting that God will provide for their needs.
2.
Guarding the Heart (Proverbs 4:23): The wisdom literature of the Old Testament also addresses the issue of distraction.
Proverbs 4:23 advises, "Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life" . This verse emphasizes the need to protect one's inner life from distractions that can lead to spiritual stagnation or decline.
3.
The Parable of the Sower (Mark 4:18-19): In the Parable of the Sower, Jesus describes how the seed sown among thorns represents those who hear the word, but "the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth, and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful" (
Mark 4:19). This parable warns against allowing worldly distractions to hinder spiritual growth and fruitfulness.
Practical Steps to Overcome Distraction1.
Prayer and Meditation (Philippians 4:6-7): Engaging in regular prayer and meditation on God's Word can help believers maintain focus.
Philippians 4:6-7 encourages believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving, promising that "the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" .
2.
Setting Priorities (Colossians 3:2): Believers are urged to "set your minds on things above, not on earthly things" (
Colossians 3:2). By prioritizing heavenly matters, Christians can avoid the pitfalls of distraction and remain steadfast in their faith.
3.
Community and Accountability (Hebrews 10:24-25): Fellowship with other believers provides support and accountability.
Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages Christians to "consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds" and to "not neglect meeting together" . Engaging in a community of faith helps individuals stay focused on their spiritual journey.
In summary, the Bible provides clear guidance on the dangers of distraction and offers practical advice for maintaining focus on spiritual priorities. Through the examples of biblical figures and the teachings of Scripture, believers are encouraged to cultivate a life centered on God, free from the diversions of the world.
Topical Bible Verses
Hebrews 12:2Looking to Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Topicalbible.org1 Peter 5:8
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour:
Topicalbible.org
Greek
563. aperispastos -- without distraction... Transliteration: aperispastos Phonetic Spelling: (ap-er-is-pas-toce') Short Definition:
without distraction, without
being distracted Definition: without
...Library
TheDistracted Mind
... done? How can she helpbeing distracted by the thought of to-morrow? Can
he feel for frail me? Does he know what I go through?" Yes....
The Canonical Answers of Timothy the Most Holy Bishop of...
... Question XIV. Shall there be an oblation for him, whobeing distracted, murders
himself? Answer. Not except the case be very clear that he wasdistracted....
In what Manner we are Gathered from Many into one through one...
... of ungodliness we had recoiled and fallen away in discord from the one true and
supreme God, and had in many things become vain,being distracted through many...
Argument: with Something of the Pride of Self-Satisfaction...
... This is very well known to occur by reason of the facility of the hearers, who,
being distracted by the allurement of words from attention to things, assent...
The Meaning of Leaven. Jesus' Knowledge of the Heart.
... Then expounding clearly and representing to them, who werebeing distracted because
of the equivocal meaning of loaf and leaven, in an undisguised fashion...
Peter's Reflections on the Story.
... While she was speaking, Peter,being distracted with much thought, stood like one
thunder-struck; and I Clement coming up, said: "I have been seeking you...
Judas Hangs Himself.
... Now, Judas,being distracted by remorse, found himself, after wandering to and fro,
in the potter's field, purchased with the thirty pieces of silver, in the...
As in Summer Living Trees are Distinguished from Withered by Fruit...
... And refrain from much business, and you will never sin: for they who are occupied
with much business commit also many sins,being distracted about their affairs...
Epistle xxxvii. To Innocent, Pr??fect of Africa.
... earnestly desires what may both prevent you from going entirely outside yourself,
and bring your heart back to itself afterbeing distracted by secular cares....
Whether the Damned Can Make Use of the Knowledge they had in this...
... Now in this world, when one is in very great pain, it is impossible to consider
any intelligible conclusions, throughbeing distracted by the pains that one...
Resources
What does the Bible say about being poor? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about being a man? | GotQuestions.orgHow can a Christian woman avoid being a diva? | GotQuestions.orgBeing: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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