Subtle Incapacitation

by Macy Johnson

“This is what the Lord Almighty says,

‘Give careful thought to your ways.’”

(Haggai 1:7 NIV)

 

My husband and I watched an episode of Air Disasters where an Ethiopian Airlines pilot allowed an early-morning flight to plunge into the Mediterranean Sea. His lack of proper sleep caused a lapse in mental awareness. The cause of the crash was deemed “subtle incapacitation” by the pilot.

 

Subtle Incapacitation is defined as a gradual, partial, and often transient impairment of physical or mental function that may not be immediately apparent to others. The investigators determined the plane could have been saved if the pilot had been more alert. The co-pilot also had difficulty with focusing on the task at hand.

 

I reflected over the television program early the next morning. Oftentimes I am easily distracted by peripheral circumstances during my quiet time with my Lord. It feels like subtle incapacitation:

 

·        Gradual: The impairment may start imperceptibly – I do not realize I am being distracted.

 

·        Partial: The impairment may not be complete – It feels like I am pulled in different directions.

 

·        Transient: The impairment may only last for seconds or minutes – The Holy Spirit consistently jerks my thoughts back to Him.

 

What can I do to avoid subtle incapacitation during my devotion time? Like airline pilots before a flight, I can make sure I get enough rest the night before. I can forbid anything to take up residence in my mind that is not centered around God.

 

My brain space is not available for rent. Demons who knock at the door of my mind must be told to go away. The Holy Spirit gives me the ability to fight off distractions, so I can live every moment in clarity and Truth.

 

I will give careful thought to my ways today. I hope you will, too!