The following is bad news for us multitaskers. Some of us pride ourselves on the ability to do several things at once. The bad news is the latest psychological studies have concluded that we really can’t walk and chew gum at the same time–at least do it well. What is it that enables multitaskers to be good at doing several things at once. I’m afraid the answer is nothing. Sorry. I realize this is a blow to our pride and we might want to argue with the researchers. But for now if we want to get more done we need to try doing less. Ouch!
This brings me to all my friends who have their morning devotions while driving to work. If we really want to get the maximum benefit from our time with God we have to close out the rest of the world. That must be why we were taught as children to close our eyes when we pray; obviously not a great idea while driving. Praying in the shower still might work since we don’t have to do anything except stand there and let the water run on us.
The Psalmist must have had this figured out. Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still and know that I am God.” And Psalm 4:4 reads, “Commune with your heart upon your bed and be still.” That must be written for young people. When I am in any prone position I immediately fall asleep.
I know if I want to really help a student I have to give him or her my undivided attention. Grading papers while they are pouring out their heart just doesn’t work. So why should it be any different when I am talking with God? Surely the King of the Universe deserves my undivided attention.
Written by Roger Bothwell on September 9, 2009
Spring of Life Ministry, PO Box 124, St. Helena, CA 94574
Rogerbothwell.org