Walking Past the Distractions

Pastor Calvin Cook
August 20, 2026 — Day 29 of 40

“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”
—Proverbs 16:9

Tuesday night, Gail and I enjoyed a simple date night. We did something we both enjoy by attending an auction, had dinner together, and then headed home. Along the way, we stopped at Walmart.

That is unusual for me. I tend to avoid Walmart for several reasons, but there is a particular product we use that we can only find there. So, whenever we are near one, we stop and pick up a few necessities.

While I went in one direction and Gail went in another, I wandered into the section filled with office supplies, paper, books, journals, planners, and organizers. You may not know this about me, but that section is one of my weaknesses. I love those things—not that I am especially organized, but I love the possibilities they represent.

Within minutes, I had gathered a handful of things I suddenly felt I had to have. Then a thought struck me: I do not need any of these. I put them back and walked away, satisfied with what I already had.

I am a little out of my comfort zone in those huge stores that are larger than some towns I have lived in. They can be a bit overwhelming to me—too much to choose from, too many options, and too many distractions.

As I thought about that experience this morning, I realized how often we live in a “Walmart world.” We walk through aisle after aisle of things that catch our attention. We see what others have, imagine what might make life better, and convince ourselves that we need more. Meanwhile, some of life’s simplest and most precious blessings are already in our hands.

During the thirty-mile drive home, I began counting my blessings: a loving wife, a comfortable home, good friends, and people I care about who also care about me. I thought about the privilege of sharing the gospel, telling others about Jesus, and walking with Him each day.

Do I have everything I want? No.

Do I have everything I need? Yes.

This morning, I am blessed to sit in the presence of God and consider what it means to walk past the aisles and aisles of distractions and simply walk with Jesus—to sit at His feet and remember that He is the one thing I truly need.

I can make plans, create schedules, fill journals, and organize my days. But only the Lord can establish my steps. My responsibility is to remain close to Him, listen for His voice, and allow the Holy Spirit to direct my path.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the many simple blessings You have already placed in my life. Forgive me for the times I become distracted by things I think I need or by plans that leave You out.

Teach me to be content with what You have given me. Help me walk past the distractions of this world and sit quietly at the feet of Jesus. May my desires align with Your desires, and may my plans surrender to Your plans for my life.

Establish my steps today, Lord, and let the Holy Spirit direct my path. Amen.