The Subtle Danger of Distraction
We often think of disobedience as outright rebellion against God—ignoring His voice, running in the opposite direction like Jonah, or deliberately choosing our own way.
But what if the greatest threat to your obedience isn’t defiance—but distraction?
Not choosing sin—but choosing busyness.Not rejecting God’s plan—but being “too overwhelmed” to pursue it.Not saying “No” to your calling—but telling yourself “I’ll get to it later.”
It's hard to hear but the reality is - delayed obedience is still disobedience.
And the enemy knows this.
If he can’t stop you following God, he’ll bring so many distractions you you won't have the time or the energy to focus on who you're called to be or what you're called to do.
Distraction is a Tool the Enemy Uses to Steal Your Purpose
So many of us underestimate distraction. We think of it as harmless interruptions, small delays, or innocent diversions. But in reality, distraction is one of the enemy’s most effective weapons.
Nehemiah’s Story (Nehemiah 6:3)
When Nehemiah was rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem, his enemies tried to distract him from his mission by calling him away.
His response?
"I am doing a great work and I cannot come down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and come down to you?"
Nehemiah didn't take the bait. Instead, he recognised distraction as a strategy of the enemy—and refused to engage.
What if your unfinished book, your untapped idea, your postponed ministry, or your “one day” dream is still waiting because the enemy has successfully kept you distracted?
What Has Distraction Cost You?
We tend to think that distraction only affects the moment.
“It’s just five more minutes on my phone.”
“I’ll start tomorrow.”
“I’m just waiting for the right time.”
But the real cost of distraction is delayed destiny and that's a scary thought.
And, it's not just about you. Why? Because every day you put off what God has called you to do is another day someone doesn’t get to experience the impact of your obedience.
We all know the story of Mary and Martha in scripture and it serves as a perfect example of the danger of distraction...
When Jesus visited the home of the two sisters, the Bible says that Mary sat at His feet, listening to His teaching, while Martha was "distracted with much serving."
Martha wasn’t doing something wrong—she was just too busy to focus on what mattered most.
“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” – Luke 10:41-42
Martha’s distraction wasn’t sinful—but it kept her from Jesus. And I want to suggest that it's the same for us. Sometimes, the biggest enemy of our calling isn’t failure or 'sin'—it’s misplaced focus.
What if your busyness is keeping you from intimacy with God?
What if your distractions are making you miss the moments He’s inviting you into?
Mary chose presence over productivity. What if, today, you made the same choice?
When Distraction Becomes Disobedience
Maybe you're asking...
“How do I know if I’m just busy—or if I’m actually being distracted from my calling?”
“What if what I think is ‘productive’ is actually just keeping me from what God really wants me to do?”
“Am I truly focused on what matters—or just keeping myself occupied?”
The Difference? Ask Yourself These Questions:
True focus keeps you moving toward your assignment.
Am I taking steps—even small ones—toward what God has put on my heart?
Distraction keeps you busy but stuck.
Am I constantly shifting my focus to things that feel urgent but aren’t actually important?
Waiting on God involves seeking direction and preparing.
Am I actively praying and preparing for what’s next—or am I just putting things off
because I feel uncertain?
Busyness makes you feel productive but keeps you distracted.
Am I filling my time with “good” things while avoiding the main thing I know I should be
doing?
The Cost of Losing Focus on Your Assignment
Every day you stay distracted, you:
Lose momentum - The longer you wait, the harder it feels to start.
Miss divine opportunities - What if what you prayed for is waiting on the other side of your obedient action?
Delay someone else’s breakthrough - Someone needs what God put inside you.
And one of the biggest costs? Regret!
Paul understood that distraction isn’t neutral. It has consequences. He gave this warning in scripture...
"I am saying this for your benefit, not to place restrictions on you. I want you to do whatever will help you serve the Lord best, with as few distractions as possible." (1 Corinthians 7:35)
How to Break Free from Distraction and Step into Obedience
1 - Identify Your Distractions
Ask yourself: "What are the top 3 things pulling me away from my assignment right now?"
2 - Set Clear Priorities
God isn’t calling you to do everything—just your assignment. So, STAY IN YOUR LANE!
“Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you.” – Proverbs 4:25
3 - Take the First Step
You don’t need perfect clarity. You need obedience.
“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.” – Zechariah 4:10
The smallest, sometimes very ordinary act of obedience moves you closer to breakthrough.
My Final Challenge to You. What Are You Waiting For?
Distraction may be keeping you busy—but is it keeping you obedient?
This week, I challenge you to:
Eliminate ONE major distraction
Commit to ONE step of obedience
Ask God: What’s the next right step for me?
Don’t let distraction rob you of your destiny.Dare to step fully into obedience today.
Ready to Break Free from Distraction and Take Faith-Fueled Action?
Distraction doesn’t have to keep you stuck. As we've already said- the smallest act of obedience moves you closer to breakthrough.
If you’re ready to step into action but don’t know where to start, I’ve got something for you:
🎯 The Focus & Faith 60-Minute Action Planner
A tool that gives you:
A simple, guided plan to help you focus on what truly matters
Clarity questions to reveal what’s been holding you back
A faith-centered framework for taking action with confidence
Set aside just 60 minutes—eliminate distractions, align with God’s vision, and take intentional steps forward.
Grab your FREE planner HERE
Share This Post! If this spoke to you, share it with a friend who needs this encouragement :)
Join the Conversation in the comments: What distraction do you need to eliminate this week?
Let’s step into obedience, together!
Love,
Vicky x
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