Dealing with Distraction

by John David Punch

I have a problem. I don’t like to be interrupted. I doubt I’m alone, but I have the sneaking suspicion that I have a bigger problem than most people. I like to get things done, I don’t multi-task very well (unless it comes to watching multiple sporting events at once), and I don’t like to procrastinate. But I’m a pastor and a husband and a dad and a neighbor and many other things. There are times when I would like to finish the book I’m reading, to finish the sermon I’m working on, or to just close my eyes for 5 minutes or so. Invariably, I get interrupted. I even got interrupted while working on this blog. Whether it’s a phone call or a knock at the door, it bothers me. In fact, I hate it.

You would think I’d know better, wouldn’t you? I am a pastor after all. I fully believe in the sovereignty of God. And I suppose as a result, there are no accidents. There are no interruptions. Those phone calls and knocks on the door are planned by God. I may want to finish what I’m working on or take a nap, but God has more in store for me. This is something I am well aware of…in theory. It’s the practice that I’m struggling with. When will I learn? Maybe I’ll make it my New Year’s Resolution…unless I get interrupted.

“We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.”
Proverbs 16:9 (NLT)

Dr. John David (JD) Punch is Senior Pastor of City Church Denver.