Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Distractions can be good things

Here are three definitions of "distraction" according to the Farlex online dictionary:
1. a mental state characterized by a lack of clear and orderly thought and behavior
2. mental turmoil or madness
3. an obstacle to attention

I often think of distraction as a bad thing, and rightly so - I dont want to be distracted from the goal, the path, the vision, the plan, the truth.
And let's not even talk about number two :)

But sometimes I have learned there are God planted and designed distractions that are meant for the other definition I found...
4. an entertainment that provokes pleased interest and distracts you from worries and vexations

I am so glad that God will always make a way to keep me from becoming focused on my own issue, struggle, or concern (of course its my choice to see it and take it and sometimes I can be stubborn... you?)
As I move through a time of distinct and sudden change in my life, where its easy to even focus on concern for others to the point of feeling overwhelmed, my God is gracious to provide me a chance to be distracted by His goodness.
I got to go with my husband Todd tonight as Lonnie Hunley, President of IBEW Local 760 for 25 years, was honored for that service - for his dedication and loyalty, for working to better life for the members and their families, for helping to give back to more than 10 local charities just this year alone.
It was a precious time for him and for the Local 760 members who attended the special resolution passed at the City Council meeting tonight.
And it was a sweet way to have God give me a break too and say - "let go for a few minutes child, look, see what good things I am doing overhere!"

See I know the right verses about not worrying, laying things at His feet, etc etc... but sometimes I'm stubborn, and I need Him to lovingly distract me... you?

6 comments:

Amy B said...

Praise Him for those moments of distraction!! I often find that they offer just enough room to breathe deeply and remember His goodness. They don't usually alter the circumstance that is occupying my heart, but alter the heart that is occupying my circumstance!

I'm praying the Lord will open doors for you that are clearly something only He could do!!!!

Chick Chat With Marisa said...

Indeed girl, my prayer is that I will not take a step ahead or behind Him in this season of my life... thanks for following the blog and for sharing your thoughts - God bless!
Marisa

Toyin O. said...

amen, we all need a distraction from our problems to the greatness of our God.

Chick Chat With Marisa said...

I know, I feel most often I'm most likely missing them because I don't pay enough close attention... to think I have chalked up His divine and loving distractions to things I just dont have time for not only breaks my heart but makes me so frustrated with myself! Good thing He loves me like crazy :)

Amy :-) said...

Marisa,

I needed to hear this, thank you. God works in great ways! God bless you, thinking and praying for you.

Chick Chat With Marisa said...

I LOVE when He uses us to bless each other! Its always a great reminder that we are vessels that are part of a much bigger story - HIS story - and girl its a NEEDED reminder that we arent alone in the things we beat ourselves up for all the time, that He simply loves us through anyway :)