Avoiding Distractions

 Memo to God's Elect

To: God's Elect

From: Pst. JK. Woodall, Ph.D.

Subject: Staying Focused on Jesus and Avoiding Distractions

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As we journey through our faith walk, it is crucial to stay vigilant against distractions that can draw our focus away from Jesus Christ. I would like to offer you some insights and reminders to help you stay centered on our Lord.

The Dangers of Shiny Objects

- External Allure: Just as the Nachash (often translated as "serpent" or "snake," but also meaning "shiny one") in the Garden of Eden distracted Eve with its cunning and appealing appearance, we too can encounter shiny objects that divert our attention from God's will. *"But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent’s cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ" (2 Corinthians 11:3).*

- Temple's Splendor: The gleaming splendor of the Second Temple was a marvel in its day, drawing people's attention to its physical beauty rather than the God who was meant to be worshipped there. This serves as a warning that even something as sacred as a temple can become a distraction if we prioritize its appearance over its purpose. *"Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?" (1 Corinthians 3:16).*

- Disguises of the Shiny One: Whether it is the Nachash's deceptive beauty or the temple's grandeur, disguises can mislead us by focusing our attention on outward appearances instead of God's truth and purpose. *"But each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death" (James 1:14-15).*

Staying Focused on Jesus

- Remain Grounded in the Word: God's Word provides us with guidance and discernment to recognize and avoid distractions. Stay rooted in scripture to keep your focus on Jesus. *"Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path" (Psalm 119:105).*

- Watch for Deceptive Allure: Be cautious of anything that draws you away from your relationship with Christ. Shiny objects can manifest as materialism, excessive ambition, or even religious structures and rituals that overshadow the essence of faith. *"Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8).*

- Seek Spiritual Discernment: Pray for wisdom and discernment to recognize the disguises of the shiny one and stay steadfast in your devotion to Christ. *"If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you" (James 1:5).*

- Prioritize Worship: Remember that our primary purpose is to worship God. Let us not be swayed by external appearances but keep our hearts and minds on Jesus. *"God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth" (John 4:24).*

- Support One Another: Encourage your fellow believers to stay focused on Jesus and share insights on avoiding distractions. Together, we can remain strong in our faith. *"Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing" (1 Thessalonians 5:11).*

Conclusion

As we continue on our journey, let us remember that both the Nachash and the Temple fell, underscoring the dangers of being drawn away from God by external appearances and deception. Let us remain strong-minded and careful, so that we do not fall as they did. Stay vigilant, keep your hearts focused on Jesus, and hold firm to your faith. 

In Christ Jesus,

JK. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia