Distractions from the Mission

2 Timothy 2:4 ESV

“No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him.”

Paul uses the analogy of a soldier’s responsibilities to his call and his duties as a soldier. Paul is directing Timothy in his ministry to stay on point. He is telling Timothy distractions will come. He tells Timothy that a soldier’s responsibilities are to obey his commanding officer, for Timothy that commanding officer is Jesus. Paul warns Timothy not to get caught up in social activities or be sidelined by events, circumstances and other things that would steal his focus from doing the work of the Lord.

This is not a word for just pastors, this is a word for everyone that is a Christian, we all have assignments, we all have responsibilities to the cause of Christ. We have people to help, people to encourage, lost souls to reach for Jesus. Ministry is not for a pastor only; ministry is for everyone that follows Jesus. Don’t let complacency slow our steps. Don’t allow social events, social interactions and our social calendar take precedence over doing what Jesus has empowered us to do.

Prayer:

Lord, remind us daily what we are to be doing for You. Help us to discipline ourselves to stand true to You, to obey Your call and Your words. Lord, we are always confronted with things that distract us from our mission, we need You to help us overcome, to get us back on track, to stay the course. In Your name Lord Jesus, Amen!