Keeping Our Eyes on the Prize: Focus and Distraction in the Christian Life
Brothers and sisters, in our journey of faith, we are constantly bombarded by distractions. The world clamors for our attention, pulling us in countless directions. Today, let us examine the importance of maintaining focus on our true purpose, and how to resist the distractions that seek to derail us from our path.
1. We Must Keep Our Focus on the Right Target (Philippians 3:14):
"I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." The Apostle Paul understood the importance of focus. He knew that the Christian life is a race, and that to win, we must keep our eyes on the prize: the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. We must have a clear vision of our goal and relentlessly pursue it.
2. Jesus Must Be the Center of Our Attention (Hebrews 12:2):
"Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God." Our focus must be on Jesus. He is the author and perfecter of our faith, the one who leads us and guides us. When we fix our gaze on Him, we find strength, courage, and direction.
3. Worldly Distractions Can Draw Us Away from God (Luke 9:62):
"Jesus said to him, ‘No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.’” Jesus warned against looking back, against allowing worldly distractions to pull us away from our commitment to Him. We must press forward, leaving behind the things that hinder our progress.
4. The Example of Martha and Mary: Choosing the Better Part (Luke 10:41-42):
"But the Lord answered her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.’” Martha was distracted by her many tasks, while Mary chose to sit at Jesus' feet and listen to His teachings. Jesus commended Mary for choosing the "better part," for prioritizing His presence above all else. We must learn to discern between what is urgent and what is truly important.
5. The Enemy Uses Distractions to Draw Us Away from the Truth (2 Corinthians 11:3):
"But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ." The enemy is a master of deception, using distractions to divert our attention from the truth. He sows seeds of doubt, fear, and temptation, seeking to lead us astray. We must be vigilant and discerning, recognizing his tactics and resisting his influence.
6. Life’s Worries Can Make Us Unfruitful (Matthew 13:22):
"As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful." The cares of this world, the anxieties and worries of life, can choke the word of God in our hearts, rendering us unfruitful. We must learn to cast our cares upon God, trusting in His provision and relying on His strength.
7. We Must Prioritize the Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33):
"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." We must prioritize the kingdom of God above all else. When we seek His kingdom first, He promises to provide for our needs. We must not allow the pursuit of worldly possessions or ambitions to overshadow our devotion to Him.
8. We Cannot Serve Two Masters (Matthew 6:24):
"No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money." We cannot divide our allegiance between God and the world. We must choose whom we will serve. Divided loyalty leads to spiritual compromise and ultimately, to spiritual ruin.
9. The Armor of God Helps Us Stand Firm (Ephesians 6:11):
"Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil." The armor of God is our defense against the enemy's attacks. It equips us to resist temptation, to stand firm in our faith, and to maintain our focus on Christ. We must put on the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of readiness, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit.
10. Staying in the Word Keeps Us on the Right Path (Psalm 119:105):
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." The Word of God is our guide, illuminating our path and keeping us on the right track. By immersing ourselves in scripture, we strengthen our faith, discern truth from error, and maintain our focus on Jesus.
- Sermon on The Red Sea Exodus 14
- Sermon on Elijah: A Man of Fire, Frailty, and Faith
- Sermon on Eternal Glory
Conclusion
Brothers and sisters, let us strive to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, resisting the distractions that seek to pull us away from Him. Let us prioritize His kingdom, put on the armor of God, and immerse ourselves in His Word. May we run the race with perseverance, knowing that the prize awaits us. Amen.
