Living Rent free in My Mind

Over the last week, I’ve notices myself slipping—especially when it comes to reading God’s Word, writing blog posts, and living out my commitment to a God-centered life.

Each day, I’m reminded of a quote: “The devil doesn’t have to destroy you, he just has to distract you.”

That idea really hits home for me. Lately, after work—and even sometimes before—I’ve found myself doing nothing productive, instead spending time writing a story that has nothing to do with God.

There was a time when I listened to what I’d call ‘smutt reader meets lusty bicker’ music. That music influenced my thoughts and led me to write elaborate smut novels, just to get those stories out of my mind.

Eventually, I realized the music I was listening to was shaping my mind in ways that pulled me away from a God-centered life. So, I made a conscious decision to stop listening to those playlists, Now, you’ll only see me with a Christian playlist—and it’s been that way for a while.

Don’t get me wrong—I still love belting out lyrics and enjoy all kinds of music. Thankfully, there are Christian artists in every genre I like, from rap and hip-hop to worship and country, so I’ve built playlists for each.

During this period, I also stopped reading smut, deleted my entire Kindle library, and stated rebuilding it with recommendations for closed-door romance novels and books with faith-based backbones. I’ve still found some truly great reads.

Recently, I picked up writing again. I know the story I’m working on didn’t originate from the best place, but I decided it doesn’t have to be smut. I’ve started shaping it into a closed-door romance—and honestly, I love how it’s coming along. Still, I recognize that even this has sometimes pulled me away from the God-centered life I’m striving for.

This morning in prayer, I declared that my writing comes last. Even though I’ve discovered a passion for writing, I have to put God first—through Bible study, prayer, and keeping Him at the center. Anything that brings fleeting happiness to my flesh can’t come before spiritual fulfillment.

I know I can do better—and be better—with obedience and dedication.