I’ve learned a lot about focus recently. For example, I’ve learned that “vision boards” can be helpful. Basically, you pin reminders of where you want to go and what you want to accomplish on a board and then position the board in a prominent place where it can remind you of your passion and dreams. It’s a great idea for clarifying your vision.
As I’ve been thinking about this whole idea of focus and vision my heart has been drawn to, Hebrews 12:1-2, where the writer of Hebrews wrote, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”
Life is a bit like a race. Now, don’t misunderstand. It’s not supposed to be a rat race – though it sometimes feels like that. The author is comparing life to a long distant marathon. I’m not a runner. But, I know this about running, your focus matters. If you’re all caught up in looking at the other runners, you’ll lose the race.
The same principle holds true in your life. If you get all caught up in comparing yourself to others; comparing your gifts to their gifts, your kids with their kids, your marriage with their marriage or your body to their body, you’re not going to run the race God has designed for you very well. God has planned a specific race for you to run. In order to run your race well your focus needs to be on Jesus. Not on facebook. Not on twitter. Not on your friend’s gifts or your friend’s house. Your focus needs to be simply put, Fixed. On. Jesus.
So hey, what does it look like for you to give Jesus your undivided attention this week? Seek, His heart, His goals and His plans for your life. Sure, create a vision board but make sure Jesus is at the center of your board. Make sure His priorities are yours. Seek Him in the morning when you get up and in the evening when you go to bed. When you need wisdom for your kids, go to Him. When you need insight at work, ask Him. When you need direction in your marriage, look to Him. Discipline yourself to intentionally set aside time to be with Him each day and to reflect on His goodness. It will make all the difference in your life. Instead, of simply drifting, your life will have meaning and purpose.
Hey, I’d love to hear from you! What have you found helpful as far as focusing on Jesus? Leave a comment and I’ll choose one person who leaves a comment to win a copy of Freedom From Performing. I’ll announce the winner on my facebook page on Wednesday.
6 Responses
June
Hello Becky,
Yes, there can be so much to focus on. My plan is to let the Bible, the Word of God, and my prayer in communication with my Heavenly Father, light the way. This is the core of my vision board
Becky
Love your thoughts, June! Blessings and Joy to you!
Joy
Dear Becky,
How to Listen so people will talk is the best Biblical communication tool I have ever discovered. I am practicing the exercise with my son. I can not thank you and The Lord enough for the lines of communication that have been de-tangled. I said all the things that you said not to before I read this book. He was crushed that I was always giving advice instead of just listening. We have a much better relationship since I applied your principles and allowed the Holy Spirit to highlight verses; especially proverbs, during our interview and listening exercises. So here is my plan. I am going to search out all verses in proverbs that relate to communication, design 3 short term communication goals and 3 long term goals. I will pray each day before engaging with others, and ask Holy Spirit to give me the correct question to dig deeper into each person’s need to express their heart. I am so excited that I will finally become an excellent listener. The very first chapter of the book changed my walk with God and my son. I have learned to put other’s hearts in first place and I am watching my son and best friend get healed by finally having someone listen intently like God does.
Becky
Dear Joy!
Thank you so much for your words! They were an encouragement to my heart! I’m so glad things are improving in your relationships. That always happens as we become better listeners. Would you consider leaving a review of How to Listen so People will Talk, on Amazon and Goodreads? That will encourage others. Thank you so much! Blessings and Joy to you, Becky
Joy
I did leave a review but I will add to it if I am able on Amazon.The tools that are in the book are gold! My son is actually happy to talk to me because I am listening with my heart!
Joy
Where is goodreads?