In the world of dog training there’s an important command called, “Leave it.” The goal of the command is focus. When a dog is on a walk with his master he’ll encounter multiple distractions. Granted, some of the distractions make for an enjoyable walk. Socializing with other dogs, stopping to smell flowers, and engaging in nature are all beneficial for the dog. But other distractions are potentially dangerous. For instance, a dead animal in the road, the urge to chase a car, or a lurking skunk is a problematic distraction. The “Leave It” command is important, because it communicates to the dog he is to ignore the distraction and keep moving towards his master.
“Leave it” is one of the most challenging things a dog learns in obedience training. For the dog to obey the command, he must be convinced his master possesses something more valuable than the distraction. Both of my dogs struggle with this command, but I sympathize with their weakness.
Why?
I struggle in the same way. I too, am easily distracted. Time and again I’ve had to be reminded that my Master possesses things far more valuable than what the world has to offer.
Following Jesus demands focus and we live in a culture with countless distractions. As Christ followers, we need to teach ourselves to “Leave it.” Doing so means we will learn to ignore distractions and quickly redirect our gaze back to our Master.
- When the enemy whispers in your ear. Leave it.
- When you’re tempted to sin. Leave it.
- When you’re self-absorbed. Leave it.
- When your thoughts don’t align with Scripture. Leave it.
Eugene Peterson’s paraphrase of Hebrews 12:2-3 from the Message Bible illustrates this concept beautifully, “Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished the race we’re in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed-that exhilarating finish in and with God-he could put up with anything along the way: cross, shame, whatever. And now he’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourself flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls.”
Tim Keller said, “Jesus must become more beautiful than our idols.” If we find ourselves habitually distracted by something that doesn’t point us towards Christ, we’ve got an idol on our hands.
Leave it.
