Have you ever been excited about a plan you have set or a vision that is before you? I am sure you know the joy that comes over you when you can see a way to better yourself or your situation. I am also equally confident that you know the feeling that hits you when someone comes along and says something that discourages you as you move forward with your plans.

Some people are just wet blankets. They seem ready to quench your fire when they see the slightest spark. I don’t know if they do it on purpose. Yet, it seems they always have something to say that diminishes your joy.

What are you to do? It is easy to allow them to quench the fire in you. Should you allow that? or Should you handle it differently? We both know that we cannot let the fire go out. But how do you deal with those people who want to, intentionally or not) distract you from your plans or vision?

Step 1…Check your source. What is the source of your plan or vision? For the believer, the one who follows Christ, He must be your source. Your plans, ideas, dreams, or goals must come from Him. If they come from any other source, they are not suitable for you. Not only are they wrong for you, but they will also not achieve anything of lasting value. If you know that your plans come from the Lord, you can be sure they will achieve their purpose.

“Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand” (Proverbs 19:21, ESV)

Step 2…Check the voices that you are allowing to speak into you. You may not be able to silence the distractors, but you can keep them from speaking into your life. Please know that they will talk to you and try to discourage you, but you don’t have to allow them to speak to you. King David was a man that followed after God. As he served the Lord, he had those who were against him. One day a man was cursing and throwing rocks at him; David’s reply to those around him was to leave the man alone and let the Lord do what He wants to do (2 Samuel 16). People will say things that distract and discourage you; check the voice and encourage yourself with the voice of the Lord.

Step 3…Check your motives. Why are these plans so crucial to you? You are commanded in the Scriptures to “do all things for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). Your motive cannot be for your success. If you want your success, you will likely be discouraged when the “wet blanket” is thrown at you. However, if what you are doing is to glorify the Lord, you should understand the importance of continuing even as others attempt to distract you. After all, it is not about you; it is about God being glorified. If you are having difficulty checking your motives, allow the Word of God to check them. Hold what you are attempting to do against the Scripture. You will quickly find out (Hebrews 4:12).
Some people like to push you down to elevate themselves. Focus on the Lord, what He has spoken to you, and what He has called you to accomplish. Follow His plan and be encouraged as He uses you for His glory. “…for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13).

There are people who just like to push you down in an attempt to elevate themselves. Focus on the Lord, what He has spoken to you, and what He has called you to accomplish. Follow His plan and be encouraged as He uses you for His glory. “…for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13).