How to Give God Our Full Attention
Since losing my sight, I have experienced a lot of awkward and cringe-worthy moments.
I don’t even need to list all of them, because I’m sure you can imagine some of the crazy things that can happen when you are navigating the world without being able to see.
Recently, I had one of these experiences at the gym. I work out with a trainer twice a week and have been doing so for several years. By now, my trainer and I pretty much have our routine down.
I arrive at the gym, and she guides me to the rowing machine where I warm up for about ten minutes while she sets up our work-out for the day.
Sara Claudia on the rower at the gym.
While I’m warming up, I usually don’t pay much attention to my surroundings. I just row, mind my own business and get my mind ready for whatever torture my trainer has in store for me.
As a result, on this particular day, I was only vaguely aware of the man who started working out on the rower right across from me.
Now, you have to remember that, I can’t see anything.
I don’t pick up on eye contact, body gestures, or other visual social cues.
The only way to get my attention is to say my name, touch my arm, or throw something at me…. actually, no, let’s just stick with the first two methods!
This man, however, did not know this about me. He had no idea that I was blind, but I was now in his direct line of sight. So, he did what any friendly individual would do….He started up a conversation.
I was slightly aware of someone speaking, but I had no idea that this person was actually speaking to me. This went on for several minutes as I continued merrily rowing along, probably staring this guy right in the face without realizing it.
All the while, he was talking to me and wondering why in the world I wasn’t saying anything back.
The true awkwardness of the situation was only realized when my trainer, who had noticed what was happening from a few feet away, came over and explained to the man that, no, I was not the rudest person on the planet. I just couldn’t see him and had no idea that he was speaking to me.
I explained that next time, it would be most helpful if he would gain my attention before striking up a conversation.
Have you ever been in a situation like this? When you are trying so hard to get someone’s attention and just feel as though you are being ignored?
Here is another question…
A blue question mark on a pink background.
Do you ever treat God this way?
I think we are all guilty at times of being only vaguely aware of His presence, even though He is vying for our full, undivided attention.
There are so many things in this world that steal our focus, however.
Our jobs, relationships, and worries are all aspects of our lives that try to take center stage.
I often become so preoccupied with all of these aspects of life that I forget to put God into the equation.
Matthew 6:33 tells us, however, that our attention should be on God first and foremost.
“Seek the kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need.” (Matthew 6:33 NLT)
The best way that we can ensure that God always has our full, undivided attention is through staying connected with and focused on Him throughout the day.
“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5 NLT)
With all of the distractions we are faced with, it takes intentionality and commitment to stay connected to Christ.
Here are a few ways we can ensure that we give God our full attention throughout the day:
Schedule Quiet Time with God
In order to stay connected, we need to have time with God each and every day. With our busy schedules, it becomes necessary to have a dedicated time each day in which you sit down, rid yourself of distractions, and just be with the Lord. I like to do this in the morning before my day gets too crazy and while my mind is fresh.
Remain in Constant Prayer
Quiet time is great, but we don’t only need God in the mornings, we need Him all throughout our day. Remember Paul’s words,
“Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NLT)
Study Scripture
Having access to God’s own word is one of the best ways we can connect with Him, and memorizing scripture is a great way to combat the distractions and temptations that threaten us in our daily lives.
Find Accountability Partners
Surround yourself with a community of friends, family members, or mentors that are also striving to give more attention to God. Meet with them frequently so that you can stay connected with them as they help you stay connected with Christ.
Friends reading the Bible together.
When we do these things, we can find so much joy in not only remaining in Christ and ensuring He holds our full attention, but we can also delight in becoming more like Him in the process.
“I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow!” (John 15:11 NLT)
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Dr. Donna Thomas Moses, who specializes in Periodontics, temporomandibular complex (TMJ), and dental implants. At her practice, she strives to make you feel comfortable and relaxed throughout your evaluation and treatment.
Ashlee Burgess Photography, which has been a photography business in the West Georgia area since 2014. Specializing in weddings, elopements, and couples, Ashlee also loves working with seniors & individuals for portraits! No matter the subject in front of her camera, her goal is to create warm, dreamy images that capture the emotion of your most precious moments.
