“This is the man who hears the word, and the worry of the world and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful.” MATTHEW 13:22

We’ve all experienced times when we’ve listened to a sermon or read our Bible, but moments later couldn’t remember what we just heard or read. That’s what happens when we have a cluttered mind. Worldly worries—about yesterday, today, and tomorrow—consume us, making it difficult for the Father to speak to our hearts.

Of course, it’s normal to think about daily demands and challenges, but Satan will do all he can to make us obsess over them, turning our attention away from what God has to say. So we must prepare our hearts, lest we miss the important truths that the Lord desires to share with us.

Friend, don’t fixate on your troubles; focus on the Father. When your mind drifts, turn to Psalms and begin reading. Consciously praise God, acknowledging His character and attributes. You will find that doing so is not only one of the best ways to break the bonds of your wandering mind, but will also give you peace about your problems.

Father, I give all my burdens to You, knowing You are faithful to accomplish all that concerns me, amen.

In His presence . . . praise His name and character.

Stanley, Dr. Charles F. (2014-11-11). Every Day in His Presence (p. 355).