Here’s a bit of good news about the 2016 Election – 97 days from now, it’ll be over.  In the mean time, it seems to be the only thing people are talking about, at least here in DC.  We simply can’t help ourselves.  We’re caught in this horrible trap of political rubbernecking…slowing down the progress of our lives to look at the wreck that is this election.

As I continue this short series of posts on the three traps followers of Jesus need to avoid in this election cycle, I want to ask the basic question, “Is this really how you want to spend the next 96 days of your life?”  Don’t get me wrong – there will be plenty to keep us entertained.  Trump will say thousands of outlandish, silly and downright ignorant things.  At some point, Bill Clinton will be unable to control himself and he’ll jump in with a few soundbites of his own.  Hillary will plod through questions about email, judgement and what drives her.  The real issues facing our country will be ignored as we struggle through the most substance free campaign in American history.  We’ll get to hear about affairs, Playboy covers, corruption, greed, bankruptcies and countless other topics.  The debates will be a circus – think Jerry Springer, but with less emotional maturity.

And this is what we’re going to do as a country for the next 96 days?

Yesterday, I wrote about avoiding the trap of division.  Today, I want to take aim at the trap of distraction.  And I want to do it in the spirit of Ephesians 5:15-16, “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.”  I just can’t believe that the best use our time is following the daily drama of this election. Should we be informed voters?  Absolutely.  Should we educate ourselves on candidates and issues?  Yes.  Should we waste time with the sideshow dramas?  No.

Imagine what God could do with the next 96 days of your life if you devoted them relentlessly to making the best use of your time.  Where would He have you direct your focus?  Your relationship with Him?  Your marriage?  Kids?  Friends?  Your health?  What adventures is He calling you to?  What books could you be reading?  What relationship needs attention?

There are so many things I need to be focused on in my life.  I don’t want to waste the next 3 months being distracted by a sideshow carnival.  I promise you this.  God’s agenda for you in the next 96 days is far greater than simply deciding who you’re going to vote for.

Let’s get our heads out of the drama and into the game!