The Barrenness of Busyness
To avoid the 'barrenness of busyness,' we must immediately dismiss distractions and stay focused on our task of worldwide evangelization.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the dangers of distractions that can lead us away from a deep relationship with Jesus, using the example of Martha and Mary to illustrate how even good friends and legitimate activities can pull us from sitting at the Master's feet. He warns that the busyness of life can result in spiritual barrenness if we do not actively dismiss these distractions. Tozer calls for a focus on the essential task of evangelization, urging believers to avoid the pitfalls of ineffective church programming and to remain committed to God's calling. He encourages mastering the art of prioritizing our time and energy to maintain a fruitful spiritual life.
Text
Satan's distracting words often come from the most unexpected quarters. Martha would call Mary away from sitting at the feet of the Master. Sometimes, if we are not careful, our best friend may distract us. Or it might be some very legitimate activity. This day's bustle and hurly-burly would too often and too soon call us away from Jesus' feet. These distractions must be immediately dismissed, or we shall know only the "barrenness of busyness."
The multiplying agencies and the extraneous activities of much of the current gospel "programming" may distract us if we are not wary and lead us into some meandering by-path that comes to a dead end. Our genius is preserved by sticking at the task of worldwide evangelization that God has called us to by the tried and proven methods that God has blessed, thereby avoiding the slough of an effete denominationalism on the one hand and unproductive, fevered activity on the other.
In a world like ours, we need to master the art and keep at the business of dismissing distractions.
Sermon Outline
- The Dangers of Distractions
- Distractions come from unexpected quarters
- 'Examples of distractions: friends, legitimate activities, busyness'
Key Quotes
“These distractions must be immediately dismissed, or we shall know only the 'barrenness of busyness.'” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- We must be intentional about dismissing distractions and staying focused on our task.
- Sticking to proven methods in evangelization is essential for avoiding unproductive activity.
- Mastering the art of dismissing distractions is crucial for staying focused in a busy world.