The word “focus” means to direct one’s attention and resources towards a specific task, subject, or person. When someone is focused, it’s akin to immersing themselves in the task or subject at hand to gain a better understanding or to perform at their best. The ability to maintain focus on a goal, task, or person empowers us to give our best in every endeavor.

For believers, our pursuit of God should take precedence above all else, as emphasized in Matthew 6:33: “Seek first the Kingdom of God.” Yet, this noble pursuit can sometimes become secondary—not from ignorance, but often because we are entangled in the busyness of life activities like education, careers, relationships, achievements, and leisure activities. In doing so, we may overlook that these blessings come from God and are a result of His goodness, grace, and mercies.

Putting God first enhances rather than neglects other aspects of our lives; it enables us to perceive His presence and guidance in all we do. By aligning ourselves with His guidance, we can successfully navigate our journey through life. Our existence as believers revolves around building God’s Kingdom and fulfilling His mission as His children and servants. We are called to follow the assignments God has laid out for us in Christ Jesus, living not aimlessly, but purposefully in accordance with His will.

Three formidable forces strive to divert our focus from God: ungodly desires, the corrupt systems of this world, and the enemy.

For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. – Romans 8:5

As believers, we must actively resist these distractions to fulfill God’s will. Through consistent prayer, engagement and obedience to His Word, we can remain connected to God and rise above the influences that seek to hinder us.

Scripture offers profound truths that, when obediently embraced, keep our focus steadfast on Christ. Fixing our gaze on Jesus purifies our hearts and minds keeps us rooted in God overcoming all distractions. Trusting in Him means recognizing that He is our ultimate source of satisfaction, peace and joy – Isaiah 26:3.

² looking unto Jesus, the ^[a]author and ^[b]finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. – Hebrews 12:2 NKJV

As we ponder on this message, I pray the hymn by Helen Howarth Lemmel ministers to our hearts and minds to help us set our focus on pursuing God, His Kingdom and Mission. May God richly bless you.

O soul, are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see?
There’s light for a look at the Savior,
And life more abundant and free.
 
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.

Through death into life everlasting
He passed, and we follow Him there;
O’er us sin no more hath dominion
For more than conqu’rors we are!

His Word shall not fail you, He promised;
Believe Him and all will be well;
Then go to a world that is dying,
His perfect salvation to tell!