Stay the Course. Weeds Take Over Fast–Especially in Seminary
In life temptation often sprouts like a weed. At first, it may seem small and harmless, but if left unchecked, it can quickly take over, choking out the fruits of our labors and derailing us from God’s intended path for our lives.
The Apostle Paul understood this struggle well. He wrote in Hebrews 12:1, “Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”
Not All Distractions Are Evil
It’s crucial to recognize that not all distractions are inherently sinful or evil. Sometimes, they’re simply good things that aren’t God’s best for us at that moment. These can be career opportunities, hobbies, or even relationships that, while not wrong in themselves, pull us away from the specific calling God has placed on our lives.
Consider the story of Martha and Mary in Luke 10:41-42. Jesus gently rebukes Martha, saying, “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.” Martha’s desire to serve was admirable, but it distracted her from the most important thing: sitting at Jesus’ feet.
As seminary students and future ministers, it’s easy to become distracted by the many demands of life, various “ministry” opportunities, and personal responsibilities. We must be vigilant in identifying and uprooting these potential distractions before they take root and hinder our spiritual growth and ministerial preparation for what God has really called us to do in this season of our lives.
So, how do we stay focused on God’s plan?
- Cultivate spiritual disciplines: Regular prayer, Bible study, and worship help keep our hearts attuned to God’s voice.
- Regular self-examination: Take time to reflect on your activities and priorities. Are they aligned with God’s calling on your life?
- Seek wise counsel: Surround yourself with mentors and fellow believers who can help you discern God’s will and stay accountable. Talk to your instructors, pastor, and counselors.
- Remember the temporary nature of our current season: As Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 4:17-18, “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
Seminary is a brief but crucial season of preparation.
The distractions and temptations we face now may seem significant, but they pale in comparison to the eternal impact of faithfully following God’s plan for our lives and ministries.
Let us commit to uprooting the weeds of distraction, staying focused on the race set before us. Though the journey may be challenging, remember that it is only for a short time. The harvest of a life fully devoted to God’s purposes will far outweigh any temporary pleasure or distraction we might encounter along the way.
As we navigate this season, may we echo the words of the Psalmist: “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). Let us use our time wisely, focusing on what truly matters in light of eternity.
Need Help?
Are you overwhelmed or struggling to keep afloat? We are here to help. Reach out to your advisor, your instructors, or your counselors. We want you to be successful.