Distracted Driving!

It’s one of the greatest dangers of our time.

Our cars are full of bright screens streaming info about the music we’re hearing and showing the route our GPS is following.

And, of course, there are the dangers from texting while driving.

Jesus warned us about “Distracted Driving” while living our lives.

This danger undergirded some of the Ten Commandments.

We must not be distracted by worshipping idols. Or by following superstitions such as astrology to try to manipulate God. (Exodus 20:3-5; Deuteronomy 5:7-9).

We must not be distracted by “adultery” nor by “coveting”—by having sex with the spouse of another person, nor by wanting the wife or wealth of another person. (Exodus 20:14-15,17; Deuteronomy 5:18-19,21).

Jesus expanded on the ideals behind these Ten Commandments. (Matthew 5:17).

We should not be distracted by even looking lustfully at anyone other than our own spouse. (Matthew 5:27-28).

We should not be distracted by even worrying about accumulating wealth, clothing, food, or drink. (Matthew 6:11,19-20,25-34).

We should not be distracted by troubles or persecutions. (Matthew 13:21).

We should not be distracted by the worries of this life. (Matthew 13:22).

We should not be distracted by the deceitfulness of wealth. (Matthew 13:22).

Instead, we should pay close, undivided attention to how we live our lives. (Matthew  6:24; 7:13-14).

Why?

So that we stay focused on living in the Way of Jesus without any “Distracted Driving”.

Only in this Way can we enjoy life fully by producing the fruit of the Spirit of the LORD: love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. (John 10:10; Matthew 13:23; Galatians 5:22-23).

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For more of my thoughts about the Sermon on the Mount, please read my blog “Building Houses on Rock: Mission Impossible?” and the chapter “After the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus Touches a Leper” in my book Hoping in the LORD, at pages 119-122.