What’s Grabbing Your Attention?
Scripture:
Philippians 4:8 – “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
Devotional Thought:
Our minds were created to dwell on what is good, true, and life-giving. But in today’s world, our attention is constantly pulled in a thousand directions. Notifications buzz, ding, and flash across our screens every few minutes. Most of these interruptions aren’t urgent, yet they distract us, disrupt our focus, and dull our ability to fix our minds on Christ.
The average adult gets over 140 notifications a day. Teens can get more than 300. Each little ping is designed to grab our attention and drag us back into an app or feed. And with every disruption, we lose time and mental clarity.
Paul’s call in Philippians 4:8 reminds us: you can’t dwell on what is excellent and praiseworthy if you’re constantly distracted by what is empty and fleeting. Notifications aren’t just interruptions—they are temptations. Each one asks: Will you focus on this, or will you focus on God?
Reflection Questions:
- What notifications distract me the most during my day?
- How do these distractions affect my ability to focus on God, others, and the work He’s called me to do?
Prayer:
Lord, help me to see my distractions for what they are. Teach me to set my mind on what is true, noble, and pure. Give me wisdom to guard my attention so I can dwell on You more than on the noise of my phone. Amen.
Daily Application:
Today, turn off one unnecessary notification. Whether it’s social media, news alerts, or email pings—silence the one that tempts you most. Use that freed-up space to pause and read a Scripture verse instead.