Focus

Hebrews 12:2 (KJV)

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Today’s topic is focus, which means directing full attention to a specific subject or point. And focus is necessary in our Christian journeys because, as long as we’re on earth, there will always be many things contending for our attention.

In the same way it is not humanly possible to focus on more than one object at a time, we cannot give equal attention to God and our problems. It’s either we're focused on our disappointments and can’t see God in the midst of them, or our gaze is steadied on Him, and so we allow Him to walk us through the hardships.

Temptations, difficulties, and discouragement are all part of Satan's schemes to get our attention. He is so eager for our attention because he knows more than we do that as long as we’re focused on Jesus—the author and finisher of our faith—his worst tactics are no match for the divine help we’ll receive.

As Christians, we have a lifelong duty to train ourselves to remain focused on Jesus in both good and especially challenging seasons. We must develop our faith muscles to withstand pressure by making a habit of beholding God's Word until our minds become fixated on Truth at all times.

We're not promised anywhere in Scripture that we would not face trials and tribulations. We’re rather promised that God will never leave us nor forsake us. And we can’t afford to allow the devil to cheat us out of the help of God by preoccupying our minds with thoughts that diminish God’s goodness to us and that weaken our faith.

Receive abundant grace to remain focused on your victories, on the Father’s great love for you, and on your righteousness in Christ, in and out of season.

Action Step: Declare, “I am not worried about… (fill in your concerns); I am looking to Jesus.” Do this every time your mind begins to wander to your challenges.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, today, I renew my commitment to stay focused on your dealings in my life at all times, trusting wholeheartedly that you have the best plans for me. In Jesus' name. Amen.