Out of and In Focus

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:2-4

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15 I am writing this under ironic circumstances. Today has been a day when I am having a hard time concentrating on anything. And yet, I can focus on how great my God is. I'm able to evangelize and preach the Gospel. I'm able to continue in the Faith that was imparted to me by the Holy Spirit through His word. Though I am distracted, and can't seem to wrap my mind around anything, I can give glory to God. Yesterday was a long and mentally exhausting day, but it was a good one! I didn't get home until very late, as the Lord had me invest in two different groups of men and one other brother in Christ after that until late in to the evening. I ministered before the Lord and it was exhilarating, and yet exhausting. I'm not trying to gain any sympathy, just reporting the facts. I say this to highlight the fact that, though I am exhausted and my day is not yet over, I can focus on the fact that God is faithful, that He is good and that, no matter my mental state, no matter how I can (or can't) concentrate, I can fix my eyes on the Author and perfecter of my faith. In a world of distractions, where's your focus? What are you being distracted by? Fix your eyes on Jesus, and He will bring what is necessary (Himself and His Kingdom) in to focus, even though the rest of the world may be in a haze.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 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. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. Hebrews 12:1-3