There are so many distractions out there in the world that can take us far from God if we are not careful. It ranges from what seems on face value to be good things like the determined pursuit to rise in one’s career above your personal relationship with God to the excessive time spent on the sofa watching entertainment channels to destress after a long day or week at work.
From a biblical perspective, avoiding worldly distractions like excessive use of social media and TV watching can be seen as a form of self-discipline that helps one to focus more on spiritual growth and living for Christ. Here are some Bible verses that support this concept:
- 1 Corinthians 6:12: “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but I will not be dominated by anything.”
- Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
- Colossians 3:2: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
- 1 John 2:15-17: “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.”
These verses encourage believers to be mindful of what they see, what they hear, what they consume and engage with, prioritizing spiritual well-being over worldly pleasures
Avoiding distractions is a common theme in the Bible, where believers are encouraged to focus on spiritual matters and not be consumed by the temporary pleasures or worries of the world. Here are some insights on avoiding distractions:
- Intentionality: Being deliberate about how time is spent and choosing activities that align with spiritual goals.
- Discernment: Recognizing what is beneficial for spiritual growth and what may lead to temptation or spiritual stagnation.
- Balance: Finding a healthy balance between necessary worldly engagements and spiritual disciplines.
- Community: Surrounding oneself with a community that shares similar values can provide support and accountability.
- Prayer and Meditation: Regular prayer and meditation on God’s word can help to center one’s thoughts on God and His will.
By implementing these practices, believers can aim to live a life that is less distracted by the world and more focused on their faith and relationship with God
Some specific distractions that can affect spiritual growth include:
- Excessive Entertainment: Spending too much time on movies, TV shows, video games, and other forms of entertainment.
- Social Media: Getting caught up in social media can lead to comparison, envy, and wasted time.
- Materialism: Focusing on acquiring possessions rather than spiritual richness.
- Workaholism: Allowing work to consume all time and energy, leaving little room for spiritual practices.
- Negative Influences: Associating with people or content that encourages negative behavior or thoughts.
Being aware of these distractions can help individuals make conscious choices to avoid them and focus on their spiritual journey.
Social Media Addiction
A big distractor that affects even believers in the 21st century is the issue of social media. While there isn’t specific data exclusively focused on Christians, studies indicate that social media addiction affects people across various demographics, including Christians. Look at data below, for you to consider
Worldwide Statistics:
- Approximately 210 million people worldwide suffer from addiction to social media and the internet.
- In the United States alone, an estimated 10% of social media users (equivalent to 33.19 million Americans) are addicted to social media.
Age Groups at Risk:
- Young social media users aged 18 to 22 account for a shocking 40% of all Americans addicted to social media.
- Teens average 7 hours and 22 minutes of screen time per day, while kids aged 8–12 get an average of 4 hours and 44 minutes of screen time per day.
Daily Usage:
- The average person spends 1 hour and 40 minutes per day on social media.
- Over 50% of Americans aged 30-49 have a social media addiction.
Gender Differences:
- Over 60% of men and over 55% of women are addicted to social media.
Global Reach:
- Around 70% of teens and young adults in the US have a social media addiction.
- Over 33% of the world’s population uses social media.
These alarming statistics highlight the growing impact of social media addiction and the need for believers in Christ to be aware and prevent themselves from becoming addicted to it.
To overcome social media addiction, consider the following strategies:
- Set Time Limits: Use apps or phone settings to limit your daily social media usage.
- Scheduled Breaks: Designate times of the day or specific days where you take a break from social media.
- Mindful Scrolling: Be conscious of why you’re using social media and what you’re looking at.
- Notification Management: Turn off non-essential notifications to reduce the urge to check your phone.
- Find Alternatives: Engage in activities that replace the time spent on social media, like reading your bible, exercising, or learning a new skill.
- Accountability Partner: Have someone help you stay accountable to your goals of reducing social media use.
- Pray to God for help if you notice that you spend more time on social media than in the presence of God.
Implementing these strategies can help boost your relationship with God and also create a healthier relationship with social media.
Altar call: For anyone reading this article who is not saved and wants to be part of the family of God or you want to re-dedicate your life back to Jesus, please repeat this out loud. “Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I have sinned against you. Lord Jesus forgive me of my sins. I repent of my sins. Lord Jesus come into my life and be my Lord now and forever in Jesus Name
Prayer: Every distraction and addiction that takes me out of the will of God, depart from my life now by the power in the blood of Jesus, in Jesus Name
Feast of Light Word Ministry
