What is Mindfulness and Why is it Important?

In our fast-paced world, distractions abound, with social media, news, and advertisements clamoring for our attention. A glance at the front page of a leading online newspaper confirms the constant competition through one-liners, moving images, colorful pictures, and shocking headlines. Shock and fear dominate our time, leading our fragmented minds to jump from one stimulus to another in an unending stream of information.

Navigating such distracted times proves challenging, as sustaining focus becomes elusive. This is where mindfulness emerges as a crucial practice, offering a counterbalance to the disruptive forces of distraction.

But what is mindfulness? According to Mindful.org, it is "the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we're doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what's going on around us." Dictionary.com further defines mindfulness as "The state or quality of being mindful or aware of something…one focuses one's full attention only on the present."

For Christians, the perils of distraction are well-known. Luke 8:14 warns that worries, pleasures, and financial concerns can stifle spiritual growth, creating a smothering effect. Living a fragmented life hinders the full embrace of the union and love of Jesus Christ.

On a positive note, God promises an undivided heart to those who know Him. Ezekiel 11:19 states, "I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh." (NIV)

Here are practical steps to embark on the journey towards mindfulness:

1.     Seek God's help in understanding the meaning of an undistracted heart.

2.     Dedicate quiet time alone with God, meditating on His promise of an undivided heart.

3.     Take a small, practical step to reduce the impact of money, riches, and worries on your daily life, such as temporarily disconnecting from the news or social media.

As God transforms us, our hearts cease to be distracted. Instead, we attain a unity of focus, being fully present in the moment, centered on Jesus, and aware of His love.