Distraction Can Be
Deadly
Someone Who Was Distracted
Distraction can be deadly! How often do we hear of a
car accident caused because the driver was distracted? But spiritual
distraction is far more dangerous, with eternal consequences. In Luke
10:38–42, we read the account of Martha and Mary. As Jesus entered the
village of Bethany, Martha welcomed Him into her home. She was a capable
and hospitable woman, focused on making sure everything was just right
for their guest. Meanwhile, her sister Mary sat at Jesus’ feet,
listening intently to His words. This posture of sitting at someone’s
feet indicated the position of a disciple, much like Paul described of
himself at the feet of Gamaliel (Acts 22:3).
Martha, though well-intentioned, became overwhelmed
and distracted by the many tasks involved in serving. She turned to
Jesus with frustration, asking Him to tell Mary to help her. But Jesus
answered with tenderness and correction, saying, "Martha, Martha, you
are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and
Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her."
The message is clear: good intentions and service are
not substitutes for spiritual devotion. Martha's distraction caused her
to miss the deeper blessing. Jesus’ response highlights that spiritual
priorities are more important than physical preparations. As He taught
elsewhere, "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all
these things shall be added to you" (Matthew 6:33).
Others Who Were Distracted
Many people today identify with Martha. We live in a
world filled with distractions—constant notifications, demands of work
and family, financial stress, and electronic noise. In Matthew 13:22,
Jesus describes those who receive the Word among thorns as those
distracted by the "cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches."
These distractions choke out the Word, making it unfruitful. They not
only crowd out God but also crowd out our loved ones and our spiritual
responsibilities.
How many of us have unintentionally let spiritual
habits slip? How many of us have allowed ourselves to be consumed with
earthly matters while our relationship with Christ grows distant? Are
you distracted from keeping Jesus at the center of your life? Are you
spending personal time with Him daily?
Getting Refocused
The solution is to realign our focus. Psalm 123:1-2
says, "Unto You I lift up my eyes, O You who dwell in the heavens.
Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their masters... so
our eyes look to the Lord our God." Our spiritual vision must be
centered on the Lord. Like Peter walking on the water, when we take our
eyes off Jesus, we begin to sink.
Isaiah 26:3-4 offers assurance: "You will keep him in
perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You."
We must also reduce distractions during prayer and Bible study. Jesus
taught, "When you pray, go into your room... and your Father who sees in
secret will reward you openly" (Matthew 6:6). Psalm 1:1-2 encourages
daily meditation on God’s Word. These habits help us tune out the world
and tune in to God.
Finally, we must walk closely with the Lord. The hymn
"Trust and Obey" says it well. 1 Peter 1:22 reminds us to obey the truth
and love one another sincerely. 1 John 5:2 tells us that true love for
God is expressed by keeping His commandments. In every area of life, we
must resist spiritual distraction and remain faithful.
As Paul said in 1 Corinthians 7:35, "that you may
serve the Lord without distraction."
Call to Action
Have distractions pulled you away from Christ? Have
your priorities become misaligned? It’s time to return your focus to the
One who never loses sight of you. Spend time in the Word. Go to God in
prayer. Eliminate what is pulling you away from Him. Serve Him with full
devotion and undivided attention. If you need to be restored, seek
prayer, or obey the gospel today—don’t delay. Refocus now, and choose
the better part that will not be taken from you.
Sermon Outline
- Distraction Can Be Deadly
- Martha and Mary (Luke 10:38–42)
- Spiritual Priorities over Physical Duties
- Worldly Distractions (Matthew 13:22)
- Getting Refocused
- Eyes on the Lord (Psalm 123:1–2)
- Mind Stayed on Him (Isaiah 26:3–4)
- Private Prayer (Matthew 6:6)
- Meditation on the Word (Psalm 1:1–2)
- Obedient Walk (1 Peter 1:22; 1 John 5:2)
- Serve Without Distraction (1 Corinthians 7:35)
- Call to Action
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