Where is My Focus?

Where is My Focus?

Where is my focus?  I must ask myself that question often.  For example, several years ago when my living room was remodeled, the first thing I saw when I walked in the front door was the lonely crack in a single ceramic tile on my foyer floor.  Even today, as I stroll through a colorfully vibrant autumn forest, my eyes are drawn to the one dead tree and its bare forsaken branches.  Why do I so easily notice the ugly and negative before I see the glorious beauty surrounding me?  Where is my focus?

I admit it.  I’m prone to see the negative in myself, in others, and the current circumstances.  And if I’m not careful and vigilant, my focus will take up residence there, and I’ll miss all that’s valuable, precious, and worthwhile.

I often see myself in the children of Israel as they wandered through the desert before finally entering the promised land.  Time after time, they forgot the good things God did for them and dwelt on the less than desirable present situation.  “They have turned away quickly,” God says in Deuteronomy 9:12. As a result, they lose God’s peace and protection.  How many times must they (must I) learn that same lesson?  Focus on the Lord and His Word and trust Him.

Moses interceded for the Israelites many times.  Jesus intercedes for me today, and I’m so thankful He does.  I want to be a better student, a quick learner, in this life.  I’m tired of wandering in the wilderness, circling the same mountain.  I want to accomplish all God created me to do.  His peace is steady; it only fluctuates in my heart if I allow it.  Therefore, a laser focus of my eyes and heart is required.

What happens when we lack focus?  We experience stress, because our mental energy is battling distractions at every turn.  Laser focus is much like our muscles, which grow stronger the more we use them.

Developing focus in my life will help me see the positive side of things, as I substantially appreciate my efforts and the efforts of others.  I must focus on focusing, so I don’t miss God’s teachable moments in my life.  The result?  A more peaceful heart.

God says to us, “Think on these things…and the God of peace will be with you” (Philippians 4:8-9).  This will completely transform our outlook!

Remember Peter as he walked on the surface of the sea toward Jesus.  He quickly diverted his eyes off Jesus, and just as quickly, began to sink.  And Jesus was in plain view!  It’s so easy for me to do the same thing.  At times, I am my most problematic foe.

So, what do I do?  Humble myself.  Repent.  Cry out to God for His help.  And shift my focus.

Where is my focus?  When my eyes are pointed in the right direction, my heart will follow. “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” Romans 8:32