LIGHT FOR THE FOCUSED LIFE (3)

“...But ONE THING I DO, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead – Philippians 3:13b

Paul the apostle followed Christ’s Path of LIGHT for the FOCUSED LIFE: “Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but ONE THING I DO, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Phi.3: 13-14). One Thing! The Goal! The Prize! The Upward Call! Paul was fervently focused, and directed that life’s race be run with focus: “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air” (1 Cor.9: 24-26).

A runner without focus is a ready-made failure. A Fighter without focus is a casualty waiting to be counted out. Contemporary Christianity is however faced on many fronts with an overwhelming assault against focus, ceaseless change, and an unending array of options. There is information overload: too many choices, too much to do, too much to see, too much to read, too much to catch up with and follow; and too much to buy. We are barraged by an infinite list of things we can do, things we would love to do, or things others tell us we should do. Feeling compelled to respond to every prospect and need is a sure recipe for confusion and burnout.

The modern pace of life is extra-hectic, leaving a sense of fragmentation, saturation, overwork, and profound loss of coherence in life. These negative conditions sap spiritual and mental vitality and threaten to neutralize faith. In contrast, focus ensures a stress-free life: it relieves us of varied pressures and ensures order and balance in life. Focus overcomes frustration. Outside of focus, life is full of confusion! When the Lord over the storms directs and commands the ship of our lives, we are certain to reach the next port of purpose, safely and successfully.

Paul pressed with focus right up to the finishing line (2Tim.4:2-8). A runner without focus is a ready-made failure, whereas revelation thrives on concentration. Focus guarantees steady progress, speed, impact, and a maximized life. In particular, a life that is focused on God will inevitably focus on Purpose, Vision, Calling, and Wisdom – the principal thing (Pro.4:7). Let’s create time to pray, meditate, think, and plan. Let’s focus on doing one primary thing and a few secondary things excellently. Let’s focus on what works, instead of complaining on what doesn’t. Let’s each concentrate on what we do best! With the Light of Focus, we become Positive Influences in our locations and generations!