When it comes to time in God’s Word, slowing down is definitely a must. Yet it is one of the hardest things to do!

I could blame my lack of concentration on this fast paced world we live in, or the million things on my list for the day, or the rushing before the kids wake up. But honestly, it’s just my uncomfortable soul with silence, waiting, being patient.

When I force myself to sit and meditate on God’s Word, He speaks—in small ways and in big ways, and I have to listen. Listening requires obedience, because when the God of the Universe speaks, I better be willing to obey what He says!

So the question becomes, “Am I ready to be still enough to hear God speak and brave enough to obey what He says?”

Don’t get me wrong, sitting still comes with its own set of problems. I legitimately have a problem quieting my heart and mind before the Lord. But the more desperate I am to hear from Him, the harder I try to lean into what He has to say.

Have you noticed when you are facing a hard situation in life you run to the Bible, and you don’t have a hard time focusing? You long to hear from God. You search for Him in every little verse. You pray and pray and pray.

Why is that? Because we are desperate for answers.

Maybe our lack of focus is really a lack of desperation to hear the voice of God.

If we only knew what tomorrow holds we might seek after Him a bit more today.

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you” (Matt. 6:33).

So that’s it? I’m going to leave you with the conviction that you aren’t desperate enough for God, and that’s why you can’t sit still?!?

Well maybe—and the notion that I am right there with you! We all face the challenge of a heart and mind that is out of focus when it comes to our time with the Lord. Find comfort in the fact that it’s not just you.

I really don’t want to leave you hanging in guilt. I want to spur you on to do something about it! Yet, if we really want to do something about it, we have to confront the real issue—our heart. Only God can change our heart if we allow it and invite Him into those places that need renewal.

So ask Him. Ask Him to change your unsettled heart to focus on Him and His word as you read and pray each day. He longs to spend time with you, and I know this is a prayer He will answer!

So as God works on our hearts, let’s do what we can to get distractions at bay.

Here are a few suggestions:

  • Go to a quiet place
  • Do it at a time when you can be alone
  • Ask God to calm your heart
  • Turn off all distractions- iPhone, computer, social media

What are some other things you do to help with your distractions?