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Daily Encounter: A Week-day Devotional by a staff of ACTS International. |
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Overcoming Distractions
When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some
days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven. Then I said: “Lord,
the God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love
with those who love him and keep his commandments, let your ear be attentive
and your eyes open to hear the prayer your servant is praying before you day
and night for your servants, the people of Israel. I confess the sins we
Israelites, including myself and my father’s family, have committed against
you. We have acted very wickedly toward you. We have not obeyed the commands,
decrees and laws you gave your servant Moses. “Remember the instruction you
gave your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you
among the nations, but if you return to me and obey my commands, then even if
your exiled people are at the farthest horizon, I will gather them from there
and bring them to the place I have chosen as a dwelling for my Name.’ “They are
your servants and your people, whom you redeemed by your great strength and
your mighty hand. Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your
servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name.
Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this
man.” I was cupbearer to the king.1 When Nehemiah was cupbearer to the king, he was concerned
about the situation of the Israelites and their city. With the king’s
permission, he set out to rebuild the wall of Jerusalem. Despite numerous
obstacles, he did not allow anything to distract him. From this story, we can learn the importance of: 1.
Being at the center of God’s will. When Nehemiah
cried out to God for his people and his land, the Lord showed him what to do. 2.
Remembering what the objective is. Nehemiah
understood that his Lord-given priority was to rebuild the city’s defenses.
Likewise, God has plans for us, and His work is always valuable. 3.
Accomplishing every task. By keeping the Lord’s
purpose in mind, we are better able to stay in our God-appointed place, carry
out every step, and stay on track. 4.
Accurately identifying distractions. Those who
seek to disrupt our work, lead us astray, or attack us personally do not come
from God. Identifying situations that may distract you will help you stay
focused. Every believer has God-given tasks (Ephesians 2:10), and
Nehemiah’s example is a model to follow in fulfilling them. Suggested Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, help me detect the
distractions that keep me from You. Sometimes distractions can be so subtle and
go unnoticed. Help me to remember that everything is by You and for You.
Beloved Father, be the center of my agenda. All glory be to You. In the name of
Jesus I pray, Amen. 1. Nehemiah
1:4-11 (NIV). Today’s Encounter was written by: Rosina N. |
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