...of Giving God Your Best

Talk It Out:
Dealing with Distractions

 

"I would like to hear how other readers deal with distractions when they are trying to have quiet time. Even though I get up early so I can have peace and quiet, I still find my mind wandering off while I read my Bible and pray. Do you readers have any tips for keeping focused so that my quiet time is productive and not just a pitiful attempt to give God my undivided attention." ~ Julie


Responses:

 
"Here is something I read about in a book years ago. Make sure you bring a pencil and paper to your quiet time.  When your mind is distracted by those endless to-do’s, write down whatever to-do item that you must remember, and set the list aside for later." ~ Jen


"I take the advice of FlyLady: 'You can do anything for 15 minutes.'  I use my timers for everything anyway but they're great when I have to stay focused on something.  I know I'm only working/reading/exercising for a certain amount of time and my timer will let me know when to stop.  I've been reading my Bible every day for 15 minutes and I will be finished with it in less than a year.  I tried to follow the schedule in my Bible and couldn't keep up with it." ~ Michele


"In response to the lady who said she had a hard time staying focused during quiet time, I have heard it suggested to keep a notepad handy and when things pop in your head of things to do, people to call, or bills to pay or whatever the distraction. Write it down and go back to your quiet time." ~ Amy

 
"I know most mothers and wives can't do what I do, but since I am retired and my understanding husband is semi-retired, I STAY IN BED, put my little bear under my head to lift it, put my reading glasses on, keep a kleenex handy, use light from window above my head (or from a small lamp on bedside table or nightlight if it's still dark).  First, I read a short portion from a FUN little book entitled, 10,000 Things to Praise God For (Jan Dargatz), to get my mind centered on my blessings.  Then I read deeper stuff, Oswald Chambers' My Utmost for His Highest.  I read Journey monthly devotional magazine (Lifeway) for very practical issues.  Then I pray lots n' lots, and then I read my One Year Bible (NLT) with a notepad.  Distractions are few and far between with this plan, and my cup is full to overflowing.  I wish every woman could follow this plan, but I know that's impossible.  Life is fast and furious for most wives and mothers so a simpler plan will be needed for now.  Just know, your more mature years are coming, and it ain't so bad!" ~ Peggy in KY

 
"I pray out loud, especially in my car when I am alone. My mind tends to wander when I am quiet, which I think is natural. I find that talking to God out loud like I would any friend keeps me focused and calm." ~ KR


Editor's Note: Thanks to these subscribers for taking the time to respond.

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