Hey Look, Squirrel!~ Distractions Can Determine Your Destiny

     Y'all we're living in a world where stuff matters, and when I say stuff matters, I mean, people care a whole heck of a lot what car their driving, what house they're living in, what name brand tag is on the clothing they're wearing, and some people care about what you're wearing too. How many of y'all know I ain't got time for all that mess? Well, I don't. There might have been a time that I did care, but that time has come and gone a long time ago; here's why guys.

     Y'all, when I'm worried about what someone else has, and what I don't have I'm not doing any good to anyone, especially myself. Satan wants us to envy others and what they have, but all that does is give us horrible feelings, it ends friendships and it doesn't put us any closer to happiness. Happiness doesn't come from things, if it did, we'd live in a much happier world. If we aren't content with the things we already have, what makes us think having more or having something better will make that happen for us? That's just foolishness, still, we live in a world where people strive to "keep up with the Jone's", and they do it in high style and big fashion. All that "stuff" is nothing but a big distraction from the Lord. Satan knows that which is why everywhere you look distractions abound, and temptation lingers. This sinful world is full of all the stuff that looks shiny, and pretty and amazing until you find yourself wrapped up in it so deep you can't find your way out. He'll present a whole lot of "squirrels" in your path that's for sure. So how do we stay focused on the important things, and how do we maintain distance from distractions in this world? 

     The first thing we need to do is to look to God's word for direction away from all the distractions. Titus 3:3-7 tells us: 3 "At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. 4 But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life."
     God promised us eternal life, it says so in Titus: 1:2 "...in hope of eternal life, which God, who never lies, promised before the ages began..." That promise comes with some strings though. Not every person will enter the gates of heaven, and I promise you Satan is working overtime in this world to distract you from getting there. If he can keep you distracted, he can keep you in chains, and he could keep you in chains eternally. 

     When the distractions don't entice you, and you're not following others, you might not be the most popular kid on the block, that's true. John 15:19 tells us: 19 "If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you." We are further told in Romans 12:2 not to conform to the world. If you don't do what they're doing, they're gonna hate you. You won't be in that "in" crowd, and we are often convinced we must be in that crowd.
     You see folks, God knew all that would be out there for Satan to use to tempt us. Just as Satan tried even to tempt Jesus, he will try to tempt you. He will look at your desires, then present you with something nearly irresistible. He knows what your shortcomings are, and this is why I implore you to keep your fence mended and keep your eyes on Jesus and off of all the distractions of this world. It's not things that matter, it's people, it's not how much money is in your bank account, or what neighborhood you live in, it's what's in your heart, and how you live your life. If Jesus is in your heart, and you're living life for Him, He's got you! Don't let anyone convince you otherwise. 
     Don't get wrapped up in keeping up with other people. Don't live your life to please others, and don't ever believe that THINGS can fill the emptiness you feel inside. Only Jesus fills that hole, I promise you that. So if you're feeling empty today, less than, and second best, and you have been trying to keep up with the Jones' for the longest time and you're exhausted; rest. He will hold you and all you have to do is be. Redirect your energy to the one who holds the stars, and the one who will hold and carry you. Don't let Satan distract you with shiny objects anymore. Hang onto the hem of His garment, and don't let go!
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     I hope this was an encouragement to you today. No matter where you're at in life, no matter what season you're walking through, stop looking left and looking right, keep your eyes on Jesus, and off of the many distractions and live a life of purpose for the King of Kings. We are in the world, but we aren't supposed to be of the world. Don't fill your mind, your heart and your life with things, fill yourself with JESUS.
     Until we talk again, have a wonderful day and if you enjoyed this please "spread the charm" to your friends. A like or a comment is always welcome too! 

XOXO
​Jen