Stick to Your God-Given Assignment
Bishop Leonard Chatham
Have you ever felt like you're constantly being pulled away from what really matters? Like there's always something trying to distract you from your true purpose? In this world of endless notifications, busy schedules, and competing priorities, it's easy to lose sight of our God-given assignments. But as believers, we need to stay focused on what truly matters. Let's dive into how we can stick to our assignments and overcome the distractions that threaten to derail us.
The Danger of Distraction
We live in a fast-paced world where everything seems to be at a tempo that if you don't keep up with it, you'll be left behind. Whether good or bad, you will be left behind. In this environment, it's all too easy to get distracted from our true purpose.
As I was studying John chapter 21, I was struck by how even the disciples struggled with distraction. After Jesus' death and resurrection, instead of waiting for Him in Jerusalem as instructed, Peter decided to go back to fishing. He said, "I go a fishing" (John 21:3). Peter represents the church here, and it's important that we understand the significance of this. The church, like Peter, can easily become distracted and return to old habits when we lose sight of our assignment.
The Enemy's Tactics
"You have an adversary," I want you to understand that. Everybody in here has an adversary assigned to them. The devil can't be at all places at one time, so he has to send out demons. He sets principalities and powers over our lives, trying to make us go against God.
The enemy uses three main tactics to distract us from our assignment:
1. Distraction: He makes you get interested in other things other than your assignment.
2. Detachment: When disappointment comes, you unplug from your power source.
3. Dehydration: He tries to take away your ability to retain power.
Guarding Against the Enemy's Attacks
To prevent the enemy from scoring a touchdown in your life, you need a good defense. Here are three key areas to guard:
1. Guard Your Friends
"He that has a friend must first show himself friendly" (Proverbs 18:24). Choose your friends wisely. Don't surround yourself with people who deplete you or take you down.
2. Guard Your Heart
Colossians 3:15 says, "Let the peace of God rule in your heart." You can't let the devil get in your heart because he'll take away your peace. When peace is disturbed, people start speaking to the end of things, which can become a curse.
3. Guard Your Mouth
The heart and the mouth are connected. "Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks" (Matthew 12:34). Be careful what you say, because you will have what you say.
Staying Inspired and On Assignment
To stay focused on your assignment, you need to become inspired again. Some people have lost the joy of their salvation. You're saved, but you're not happy because the devil has distracted you, made you unplug, and dehydrated you spiritually.
Remember what Jesus said to Peter in John 21:22: "If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? Follow thou me." In other words, don't compare yourself to others or worry about their assignments. Focus on following Jesus and the specific task He's given you.
Life Application: Sticking to Your Assignment
Identify Your Assignment: Spend time in prayer and reflection to clarify what God is calling you to do in this season of your life.
Eliminate Distractions: Take an honest look at what's pulling you away from your assignment. It might be social media, unhealthy relationships, or even good things that aren't the best use of your time.
Stay Connected: Don't forsake assembling together with other believers (Hebrews 10:25). We need each other for encouragement and accountability.
Guard Your Heart and Mind: Fill your mind with God's Word and positive influences that keep you focused on your purpose.
Speak Life: Be mindful of your words. Speak positively about your assignment and God's ability to help you fulfill it.
Seek Inspiration: Regularly engage in activities that inspire you and reignite your passion for your God-given assignment.
Remember, the enemy wants to distract you, detach you, and dehydrate you spiritually. But if you stay focused on your assignment, guard your heart, and keep your eyes on Jesus, you'll be able to overcome these tactics and fulfill the purpose God has for your life. Don't let comparison or discouragement hold you back. Stick to your assignment and watch how God works through your obedience.
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