I believe the greatest tool of the enemy on Western Christians is not mediocrity, poor leadership, or even doubt. I believe it is distraction. Even as you read these words, there is a strong possibility that you are skimming the page, or thinking about what you are going to do the moment this letter leaves your hands.
Distraction is what causes great leaders to fall. They become consumed with something other than what God has called them to, and they make bad decisions. The first of which is to neglect their daily devotional time and prayer life. Distraction also divides families, ruins businesses, and ultimately ruins lives.
Jesus says, in Mark 7:6-7, “'These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain.” As Christians, we are mandated by God to reach out to the poor, and go into all the world to bring the message of the Gospel. Jesus is counting on His followers to obey His words, and see their generation touched by His power and His love.
When Jesus was arrested, his disciples literally fled. When we are challenged to reach our world for Jesus, the enemy will do everything in his limited power to distract us from building the Kingdom of God. Issues dealing with money, family, work, or sickness will arise the moment we make a conscious decision to put our lives on hold in order that some might be won for Christ.
I believe we can overcome distraction by staying in the presence of God. Jesus is asking us to be His hands, feet, and voice to those who are lost and needy. Can He count on you?
