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Intentional Living.

Author: Jefferson O Imgbi

Date: Wednesday, April 30, 2025

Key Bible Verse: "See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,
Redeeming the time, because the days are evil."            
— Ephesians 5:15–16  

The Series Subtitle: Intentional Living. Part 4

Affirmation: "Each day is a gift. I live with purpose, make mindful choices, and pursue a life that reflects my values and vision."

The Sure Word for Today

Day 4: Saying No to Distractions – Protecting What Matters

Intentional living requires more than saying yes to purpose—it demands saying no to distractions. Jesus knew how to protect His assignment. When the crowds tried to make Him king by force, He withdrew. When Peter rebuked Him on His path to the cross, He said, "Get thee behind me, Satan." Jesus was focused. He did not allow pressure, popularity, or persuasion to pull Him off track. His example teaches that to stay aligned, you must guard your attention and energy fiercely.

Distractions are not always obvious. They can come dressed as good opportunities, urgent requests, or people who mean well but do not understand your calling. Every yes costs time, energy, and focus. If you are not careful, your life becomes filled with obligations that drain your purpose instead of driving it. Saying no is not selfish—it is wise. It is a declaration that your future matters enough to protect it from unnecessary noise.

Take control of what you allow into your schedule, your space, and your spirit. Be bold in setting boundaries that guard your peace, sharpen your focus, and honour your calling. When you say no to what distracts you, you say yes to what develops you. This is not avoidance—it is alignment and alignment always accelerates growth.

Click here for the Audio and Video of this series

Connect

Think about a time when you felt overwhelmed—not because life was full, but because your focus was scattered. Maybe you said yes out of guilt or fear of missing out. But after saying yes, you lost momentum on what truly mattered. That moment taught you something valuable: peace and progress come from guarding your yes. Let that lesson remind you to choose to focus on pressure.

Extend

The Bible is full of those who chose focus over distraction. Nehemiah refused to come down from the wall. Paul refused to argue over empty debates. Jesus constantly retreated from noise to stay connected to His mission. These examples show that intentional people are not easily swayed. They live by assignment, not approval. Let their discipline encourage you to say no, not to isolate yourself, but to protect your power.

Reflection And Application

Write down three things currently pulling your attention that do not align with your purpose. Decide which ones you need to remove, reduce, or restructure. Then, list three things that deserve more of your focus. Be intentional this week: protect your time, guard your space, and honour your boundaries. Saying no is not rejection—it is direction.

Inspirational Quote by Jefferson O Imgbi

"Every time you say no to a distraction, you say yes to your destiny. Protect your focus—it is the fuel of your future."

Inspirational Quote Video and Audio

Let Us Pray

May God bless your heart with discernment to recognise what distracts you and the strength to walk away from it. May His wisdom guide your decisions, and may His peace affirm the boundaries you set. Let your mind be clear, your time protected, and your purpose preserved. May every 'no' you speak make more room for what truly matters. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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Here are the links to some of our YouTube Playlist:

Mental Health Conditions          Inspirational Quotes by Jefferson      Mental Illness and Recovery

A Final Thought with Jefferson   The Sure Word Audio and Video Blog Post    Living with Purpose
 
Overcoming Adversity                Faith and Despair               Inspiration for Uncertain Times

Words of Encouragement          The Bible Verse of the Day    Spiritual Motivation

Covid-19 & Coronavirus            Strength and Bravery          Conflicts And Resolution

Personal and Spiritual Growth    Time Management               The Sure Word Capsule
                 
Marriage and Relationship