In the hustle and bustle of our lives, where distractions abound and time slips away, the call to be fully present echoes with profound significance. In this devotional, Fully Present we embark on a reflective journey to explore the depths of what it truly means to be engaged—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Guided by the wisdom of Scripture, we navigate the realms of family unity, spiritual connection with God, active participation in our church communities, and the transformative power of fully engaging in Bible studies. As we unravel the symptoms of distraction, understand the effects of incomplete presence, and embrace actionable steps for positive change, may this exploration inspire a commitment to live fully present in each moment, fostering deeper connections with our families, God, fellow believers, and His life-transforming Word.

Being Fully Present with Family: 
Have you ever been physically present but mentally elsewhere when spending time with your family? It’s a common challenge in our fast-paced lives. The symptoms might include distraction, constant checking of phones, and a lack of genuine engagement. However, Scripture emphasizes the significance of family unity. In Colossians 3:13-14, Paul urges us: “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” Being fully present with our families fosters love and unity. 

Thanksgiving is just around the corner so I want to invite you to be fully focused on your family members.  Put away your phone, put it in a purse or leave it in the car.  Commit to not even have it on your person and then take time to really talk and really listen to your family members.  Delve into deep questions about who they are, what their goals are and what is going on in their lives.

Being Fully Present with God:
In our relationship with God, distractions can hinder our connection. Symptoms may include rushed prayers, reading the Bible without comprehension, or a lack of stillness in His presence. Psalm 46:10 encourages us: “Be still, and know that I am God.” Being fully present with God involves creating quiet moments for prayer, meditation, and reflection, allowing His presence to permeate our lives. 

You can watch every TV preacher, listen to every sermon on the radio/sirusxm and or attend every bible study out there but if you are not taking time to meditate on what you are hearing, meditating on the scripture you are reading and/or meditating on what you hear your pastor preach on, then you are just stuffing your head with knowledge.  God tells us to be doors of the word not just hearers or we deceive ourselves.  If you don’t take time to meditate, how will you know what it is that God wants you to do?

Being Fully Present at Church: 
Attending church is more than a physical presence—it’s about engaging with the community of believers, the music and the sermon. Symptoms of not being fully present in church might include a lack of involvement, disengagement during sermons, or a failure to connect with fellow worshippers. Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.” Being fully present at church involves active participation, fostering community, and encouraging one another. 

I feel bad for the pastors who stand up each week and look out into the congregation only to see Christians sitting and playing on their phone when everyone else is standing, talking to each other while he is preaching, playing on their cell phone, sometimes the entire time, never looking up once to see the displayed scripture or the pastor, and some who continue to play on the phone even during the closing prayer.  These same people almost run out of the church as soon as it is over.  Did they check off the box that they attended church?  Do they not like the church, pastor or people where they attend? Or are they just not fully connecting to all the greatness that going to church brings?
 

Being Fully Present in Bible Studies:
Participating in Bible studies offers a chance for spiritual growth. Symptoms of not being fully present might include lack of preparation, distraction, or disengagement during discussions. Proverbs 18:15 emphasizes the importance of being attentive: “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.” Being fully present in Bible studies requires preparation, active listening, and a hunger for spiritual understanding. 

God holds bible study teachers to a much higher standard than the average Christian.  They set Christian examples for their students.  They should be faithful and regular church attenders, tithers, supporters of their church and leadership, engaged in ministries of the church, reading and studying their bible and fellowshipping with other members.  They represent not only God, but they represent their church. As an attender of a bible study, you need commit to be fully present as well.  Your teachers have studied, prayed and meditated on the lessons they are teaching, if not, stop gong to that study.  They are pouring into you the things the Holy Spirit have led them to share.  Fully focus and take it all in.

The effects of not being fully present can be detrimental, leading to strained relationships, spiritual stagnation, and missed opportunities for growth. Recognizing these effects is the first step toward positive change. 
 

Listed below are a few steps you an take be more fully present: 
1. Set Boundaries: Establish boundaries to minimize distractions, especially during quality time with family and moments of spiritual connection. 
  
2. Practice Mindfulness: Cultivate a habit of being fully present in the moment, whether in prayer, at church, or during Bible studies. 

3. Eliminate Multitasking: Focus on one thing at a time, giving your full attention to the task or interaction at hand. 

4. Prioritize Time: Allocate dedicated time for family, God, church, and personal spiritual growth. Quality often trumps quantity. 

5. Reflect Regularly: Assess your level of presence in different areas of your life. Identify areas for improvement and celebrate successes. 

Remember, being fully present is a continual journey. By taking intentional steps and seeking God’s guidance, we can cultivate a more present and fulfilling life.