Not turning aside to the right or to the left. Sometimes I get a scripture or piece of scripture in my head, similar to how a tune finds its way in there and starts rattling around. One of those scriptures that lately invaded is Deuteronomy 5:32, the chapter where the Ten Commandments appear. The verse states in the NIV: So be careful to do what the LORD your God has commanded you; do not turn aside to the right or to the left.

Why turn to the right or the left, except that distractions appear? It is difficult enough to know where we should be headed, and it is such a blessing when God gives us a vision. But that is only the beginning of the battle, because in getting there I am so distracted by less important matters. This applies to the great visions and to the small visions, such as the vision of what I need to be doing today.

With regard to the matter of daily distractions, I liked this article by Meg Edwards, one of the David Allen coaches. As I read it yesterday, the "left or right" scripture fragment that had been intruding into my consciousness appeared brightly. Does it sound trivial to bring Deuteronomy 5:32 down to the level of "what am I to do today"? Maybe it is less trivial if I put this question in the way we were recently admonished to ask at Montreat, "What is Jesus doing in my world today and how shall I be involved in that work?" This begins to make "Getting Things Done" part of a plan of action beyond the trivial.