Because it is Sunday, this entry will take on a more reverent meaning. Let's talk about Gideon of the Bible. When the Lord called him to free the Israelites out of bondage, he needed an awesome army to help him. There were tens of thousands in the beginning, but soon Gideon learned from the Lord that his army was too large. The more scared militiamen were sent away. They numbered 22,000. The rest were tested of their skills by drinking water from a spring. Wait... how is drinking water from a spring going to tell the Lord if they were ready to fight in His army?
The majority were dismissed because they were too distracted. Some lapped water up like a dog. Some bowed on their knees to drink. They were so focused on their thirst, they did not give heed to what dangers could be lurking nearby. Aren't many of us guilty of this? I know I am.
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We are too easily distracted! Are we aware how these distractions are a tool of the adversary who desires us to be distracted? When we are not paying attention, he can wiggle his way into our lives easier, thus pulling us further and further from the Divine potential awaiting us. More and more people are spending countless hours on social media. I know there are days I get sucked in all too easily. Perhaps others are distracted by outings that do not fill their souls but only empty their wallets. I could go one and on with examples, but that is not my intention today. I feel impressed to challenge each one of us (myself included) to ask yourself, "What is distracting me from reaching my potential? From doing the things God would have me do?" Pinpoint that distraction and either cut back on the time you are giving to it, or get rid of it altogether! Fill that time with wonderful, productive things! Volunteer at an assisted living home; read to children in the hospital; find a young mother who could use a hand learning to balance her life; pick up that language book you have been wanting to study; take up singing lessons; take more time to hug your kids, love on them, help them feel valued; or just sit and be still... just BE.
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So who did Gideon end up with for his army? The ones that were chosen numbered only 300, because they drank by bringing the water to their mouths with their hands, their eyes always being alert and on the lookout of the enemy. Thousands were sent home and only a few hundred remained to fight for the cause of Good and Light. Amazingly enough, not one person was slain and his men still won the battle. (The story is in Judges 7 in the Old Testament as well as the links in this entry.)
Friends, God will provide a way for us to win the battles in our lives, many times in ways we do not understand. Our job is to be tuned in a focused to what He wants us to do and be ready when He asks us to do it. That is how we become Guardians of Light- by being teachable, focused, and ready.
May you always drink from the spring by being focused beyond distractions. The water is more refreshing that way.
Remaining Focused,
Mama Dragon
