Thursday, April 25, 2013

Where Is Your Focus?


Today I spent an hour and a half talking with a local executive for a national organization which is considering making a significant policy change which would greatly affect its participant partner organizations if approved. On one side I am engaged in being active trying encourage the organization to not make the change and warning about the potential range of consequences, and on the other side I am hoping that the change is not made and the point then becomes a non-issue for the time being. This same proposed change has people throughout the country greatly concerned and considering what action or actions they might need to take both the head it off or to respond if it is done. And the potential consequences are huge. This can be a real head spinner, leaving many to throw their arms up in the air and either walk away without making the effort or to resign and accept a change which would not be acceptable. There are even those who simply say, “What does it matter.”

This is only one of many things going on around us that can capture not only our attention but also our hearts, and when our hearts are captured we often do things without fully stopping to considering our proper response. Our challenge is not to get swallowed up, even in “good” causes without stopping first to spend time with God and seek His desire for our response and even our involvement. Things, events, and even causes are not to be our focal point. God is, and then all we do is a response to the direction we receive from Him.

Today in “Jesus Calling” by Sarah Young (4/25)

Make Me your focal point as you move through this day. Just as a spinning ballerina must keep returning her eyes to a given point to maintain her balance, so you must keep returning your focus to Me. Circumstances are in flux, and the world seems to be whirling around you. The only way to keep your balance is to fix your eyes on Me, the One who never changes. If you gaze too long at your circumstances, you will become dizzy and confused. Look to Me, refreshing yourself in My Presence, and your steps will be steady and sure.

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2

But you remain the same, and your years will never end. Psalm 102:27

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