Spiritual ADHD

December 3rd, 2009

Proverbs 1:33-”But all who listen to me will live in peace, untroubled by fear of harm.” (NLT)

For years I have had to learn how to handle my very “active” mind. Basically I am a self-diagnosed sufferer of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and I’ve learned to live with the disorder pretty effectively. Having a plan with goals, rest, exercise, healthy eating habits, vitamin supplements, and a trust in and a life driven by a power greater than myself (God/Jesus) has worked wonders in allowing me to function at a pretty high level even though my mind is constantly trying to “race.” A common defect for those of us with ADHD is the inability to listen. This has gotten me into a lot of trouble over the years but slowly but surely I am getting there…unless you ask my wife.

A common defect in Jesus followers is what I refer to as Spiritual ADHD. We profess to know the Word yet live a life that demonstrates otherwise.

In Proverbs, God says if we listen to Him we will live in peace, untroubled by fear of harm. The key here is to listen and listening takes action. Listening means to hear attentively. Listening means trying to understand what someone else is telling you to the point you can demonstrate it back to them. Do you ever wonder if God is watching us after we read scripture to see if we really are “listening” to His Word?

Spiritual ADHD for God loving people represents itself in various ways but there are usually two symptoms that are more profound than the rest. The first presents itself as a life in turmoil and not at peace. This life is often lived in fear of “something.” The other symptom is a life of self-righteousness where the Christian “preaches” and “teaches” the word much more effectively than they live it.

Let’s be honest, we all have our moments when Spiritual ADHD takes over. The key is to keep these episodes in “moments” and not allow them to turn into days, weeks, months and years.

The best way to keep Spiritual ADHD in check is to not only spend time in the Word but to try your best to live the Word. Having time set aside in the morning to read scripture and then pray and envision how it will apply to your life is a great way to start the day. During this time it is also important to list your fears and turn them over to God. Remember, fear is from the evil one and God beats evil everytime. Plugging into accountability groups and interacting with healthy accountability people will also help in keeping Spiritual ADHD in check.

Last but not least, try hard to let your actions speak louder than your words…especially when “nobody” is watching you.

P.E.A.C.E.

Jay@EagleLaunch.com