Moment With The Master
“Distractions”
Categories: Moment With The Master“And this I say for your own profit, not that I may put a leash on you, but for what is proper, and that you may serve the Lord without distraction.” (1 Corinthians 7:35)
In the context of the above verse Paul lists several common human experiences. “But this I say, brethren, the time is short, so that from now on even those who have wives should be as though they had none, those who weep as though they did not weep, those who rejoice as though they did not rejoice, those who buy as though they did not possess, and those who use this world as not misusing it. For the form of this world is passing away.” (1 Corinthians 7:29-31) All of these are perfectly legitimate activities, but like all encounters in this life they are temporary. Thus, Paul places greater emphasis upon our eternal relationship with Christ.
So, it is not wrong to be lawfully married, and devoted to your mate. There are occasions to cry or laugh that are perfectly legitimate. It is not a sin to have physical possessions, or even to enjoy the wonders of the physical world. However, the time and devotion given to each of these must be tempered by the greater priority- our devotion to Christ. We must never get distracted from this central reality: our relation to the Lord. Everything must be evaluated by our love for Christ. There must be no other standard or interest!
What distracts you from serving the Master? May God help us to have a single eye and a united heart. May all of our feelings, tasks, and relationships be woven by a single strand of commitment to Christ.
By George Slover
