Finding Jesus Amidst Life’s Distractions

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” - Matthew 6:33

In our hyperconnected world, we’re surrounded by everything except the One who matters most. Notifications ping constantly, responsibilities pile up, and even our good intentions can become distractions that pull us away from Jesus. If you’ve ever felt spiritually scattered or struggled to hear God’s voice above life’s noise, you’re not alone.

The Martha and Mary Moment

Remember when Jesus visited Martha and Mary’s home? Martha was “distracted by all the preparations that had to be made” while Mary “sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said” (Luke 10:38-42). When Martha complained about her sister’s apparent laziness, Jesus gently responded: “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

How often are we Martha, bustling around with good intentions but missing the presence of Jesus right in front of us?

Recognizing Our Modern Distractions

The apostle Paul warned us that “in the last days there will be very difficult times” and described people as “lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God” (2 Timothy 3:1-4). While Paul was addressing different circumstances, his words ring true today. Our distractions aren’t just sinful pursuits—they’re often good things that become ultimate things.

Social media promises connection but can leave us more isolated. Work provides purpose but can consume our identity. Entertainment offers escape but can numb our souls. Shopping gives temporary satisfaction but leaves deeper needs unmet. Even church activities, while beneficial, can sometimes crowd out intimate time with God.

Following Jesus’ Example of Withdrawal

Jesus himself faced constant demands on his time and attention. “Yet the news about him spread all the more, so that crowds of people came to hear him and to be healed of their sicknesses. But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed” (Luke 5:15-16).

Notice that Jesus withdrew often—not just when he felt overwhelmed, but as a regular practice. He understood that staying connected to his Father required intentional separation from the noise of daily life.

Creating Sacred Space in Your Day

Following Christ’s example means building rhythms of withdrawal into our lives:

Morning Quiet Time: “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed” (Mark 1:35). Consider starting your day in God’s presence before the world’s demands begin.

Digital Sabbath: God commanded a day of rest for good reason (Exodus 20:8-11). This might mean turning off devices for a few hours each week or taking regular breaks from social media.

Prayer Throughout the Day: Paul encouraged us to “pray continually” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). This doesn’t mean constant formal prayers, but maintaining an awareness of God’s presence through brief conversations with him as you go about your day.

Finding Jesus in the Ordinary

While withdrawal is essential, we’re not called to escape the world entirely. Jesus prayed, “My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one” (John 17:15).

Look for God in the mundane moments. Offer gratitude while washing dishes. See Jesus in the face of a difficult coworker. Practice presence during your commute. As Brother Lawrence wrote centuries ago, we can practice the presence of God even while peeling potatoes.

Setting Gentle Boundaries

Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Sometimes finding rest requires saying no to good things so we can say yes to the best things.

This might mean limiting news consumption that increases anxiety without leading to helpful action. It could involve stepping back from commitments that don’t align with your God-given calling. Perhaps it’s unfollowing social media accounts that stir up comparison or anger.

The Promise of Peace

Jesus promised his disciples, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27). This peace isn’t found in perfect circumstances but in the presence of the Prince of Peace himself.

When we feel scattered by life’s distractions, we can remember that “God is not a God of disorder but of peace” (1 Corinthians 14:33). He invites us to “be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).

The Invitation Remains Open

No matter how far we’ve drifted into distraction, the invitation remains: “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me” (Revelation 3:20).

Jesus isn’t competing for our attention—he’s patiently waiting for us to remember that in him “we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28). When everything else fades away, he remains the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

Take a deep breath. Turn your heart toward him. He’s been there all along, waiting for you to choose what Mary chose—the one thing that truly matters.

What distractions do you need to set aside today to make room for Jesus? He’s waiting for you in the quiet places.