Focused on the Right Stuff

Focused on the Right Stuff

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.

It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

Colossians 3:23-24 NIV

Did you know that being focused is a skill? It’s not something you’re born with or blessed with. It’s not a quality some have, and some don’t. We’re all focused people. The question is, are you focused on the right things?

So, how do you know that you’re focused on the right things or the wrong things? You can evaluate the direction of your focus by the fruit you produce. Are your thoughts and actions producing peace, patience, and strength in yourself and in others? Or is your focus producing fear, anxiety, or dread in your inner self?

The first step to determining your life’s focus is to stop. I realize that doing that is super difficult today. I can almost guarantee that from the moment your eyes open in the morning, your mind is racing to that list of activities you have planned. But before you put your feet on the floor in the morning, STOP! STOP and tell yourself which direction you’re going to go. You’re not a victim to routine. You can choose to pivot, to redirect, and to refocus at any point in your life.

A focused person commands his or her thoughts and inner spirit to stay present in the moment, to provide the path necessary for effectiveness, wisdom and strength. A focused person does that today, so tomorrow can be all you intend it to be.

Here’s the thing. You will get distracted by shiny things, by unnecessary things, and by distractions our culture will try to use to bend your focus. When that happens, give yourself some grace and start again. And, if you’re a Christ-follower, if Jesus occupies the central core of who you are, you can stay focused on Him and His teachings to move ahead each day.

Have you noticed, when you’re out there in your vehicle, whether it’s an 18-wheeler, a scooter, or a family van, you steer where you stare? And if you know that you steer where you stare, why not stare at the person who wants you to have a full and abundant life . . . Jesus Christ?

Do your thoughts, actions, and choices show that you’re focused on what really matters for forever and not just for today?

Thank you for reading Pastor Dale’s Mid-Week Encouragement. It’s not copyrighted so feel free to share it with someone who needs encouragement today. And, if you’re a regular attender of the Mt. Laurel Church of God or regularly watch the live feed on Facebook or the recorded service on YouTube, consider reading Genesis 12:1-9 to get ready to worship on this coming Sunday, June 7 as we worship the King of kings and Lord of lords!

Called to know the Way, go the Way, and show you the Way,

^{Pastor Dale}

Pastor Dale (PD) and Pamela his wife are honored to serve the Mt. Laurel Church of God. If this Mid-Week Encouragement has helped you, perhaps it may encourage someone else. Feel free to share this message with anyone you choose. And if you'd like to receive PD's Mid-Week Encouragement, just send an email to (kingdomguy@gmail.com) and I'll accommodate your request.