Staying Focused: Avoiding "Shiny Objects"

Staying Focused on God's Calling:

In the fast-paced world of business, leaders are often bombarded with opportunities, ideas, and pursuits that promise success, influence, or financial gain. Some of these paths align with God's calling, but others—what we might call "shiny objects"—are distractions wrapped in justification. These distractions can lead us away from our original mission, tempting us with what John describes as “the pride of life” (1 John 2:16).

Throughout the Bible, we see leaders who were called by God but allowed distractions to steer them off course. Their stories serve as cautionary tales, reminding us that there is always a cost to losing focus. Some were able to course correct, while others suffered irreversible consequences.

The Cost of Distraction

1. Samson – Strength Wasted on Selfish Desires Samson was chosen by God to deliver Israel from the Philistines, yet he became consumed with his own desires, particularly for Philistine women. His infatuation with Delilah led to his downfall (Judges 16). Though he ultimately fulfilled his mission, it came at the cost of his strength, freedom, and life. His story warns us that unchecked desires can rob us of the effectiveness God intended for us.

2. Solomon – Wisdom Undone by Worldly Pursuits Solomon started well, asking God for wisdom rather than riches (1 Kings 3). However, as his wealth and influence grew, so did his distractions. He amassed wives, wealth, and idols, straying from the very God who blessed him. His divided heart led to a fractured kingdom. Solomon’s story teaches us that when we chase after the world’s definition of success, we risk losing what matters most.

3. Jonah – Running from Responsibility Jonah was given a clear mission: preach repentance to Nineveh. But instead of following God's call, he ran in the opposite direction (Jonah 1). Only after enduring a storm, being swallowed by a great fish, and repenting did he get back on course. His story shows that resisting God's calling can lead to unnecessary hardship, yet God is merciful when we realign with His will.

4. Peter – Distracted by Fear and Doubt Peter had the faith to step out of the boat, but when he saw the wind and waves, he began to sink (Matthew 14:28-31). His fear distracted him from Jesus. Like Peter, when we focus on the obstacles rather than God’s power, we lose our footing. Yet, Jesus was there to lift him up—a reminder that when we falter, God’s grace can restore us.

5. Demas – Trading Purpose for the Present World Paul lamented that Demas had abandoned him “because he loved this present world” (2 Timothy 4:10). Unlike others who course-corrected, Demas’ distraction cost him his place in God’s work. His story warns us that prioritizing earthly gain over eternal purpose can lead to spiritual abandonment.

6. Martha – Distracted by Busyness Over Presence Martha was so consumed with serving that she missed the better part—sitting at Jesus' feet (Luke 10:38-42). In business, we can become so focused on tasks and responsibilities that we neglect what matters most. Jesus reminded Martha that only one thing was truly necessary—Him.

Staying True to Our Calling

As business leaders, we must be vigilant against distractions that pull us away from God’s mission for our lives. Opportunities that seem promising on the surface may actually be detours that delay or diminish our effectiveness. To stay on course, we must:

• Pray for discernment – James 1:5 tells us that if we lack wisdom, we should ask God. Through prayer, He will clarify which opportunities align with His will.

• Stay rooted in God’s Word – Regular time in Scripture keeps our perspective aligned with God’s purpose rather than worldly success.

• Surround ourselves with wise counsel – Proverbs 11:14 reminds us that “where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” Seeking godly advice helps us avoid distractions.

• Examine our motives – Are we pursuing something for God’s glory or our own? Honest reflection will reveal whether we are being led by the Spirit or by selfish ambition.

Going Farther with God

We go farther when we go with God, rather than being led astray by distractions and temptations. If we are convicted about our purpose, we will recognize which opportunities to embrace and which to set aside. Just as Jesus remained focused on His mission despite temptations (Matthew 4:1-11), we too must stay the course.

Let us learn from the mistakes of those who veered off track and remain steadfast in the calling God has given us. Success in God's kingdom is not about chasing every opportunity—it’s about faithfully walking in the one He has ordained for us.

-Mark