Focus. As we are bombarded with constant brain stimulation in multiple areas simultaneously, we often lack focus. In many ways we have lost the simplicity of life as we are confronted with the demands of family, the requirements of work, the enticements of pleasure, the desire for relaxation, the influences of the internet, the array of entertainment, and the expectations of church. Though many of the things pulling our attention today were not an issue during the days of Solomon, intentional focus was still difficult. In his desire to teach the importance of full dedication to walk in the ways of the Lord, Solomon wrote, “Incline your ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply your heart to my knowledge, for it will be pleasant if you keep them within you, if all of them are ready on your lips. That your trust may be in the LORD” (Proverbs 22.17-19).
Focus. These four areas Solomon exhorted are critical for us to maintain. First, to incline our ears – to hear God’s Word, for His Word alone is truly wisdom. There are many things to listen to today, but our priority must be the Scriptures, for in them we find truth, direction, motivation, and hope. Two, apply our hearts to knowledge – being determined in having our hearts and lives transformed to be in harmony with the Lord; to not just know truth, but to have truth permeating every area of our lives; to follow the example of Jesus Christ. The result: we will see how good God and His Word are; we will enjoy and be fully satisfied in Christ. Three, to have His Word on our lips – to be ready to speak truth to ourselves and others in the moment of temptation, in the struggle of trial, in the heat of battle, in the weakness of the flesh; to know truth and to be ready to live truth. Four, to trust the Lord – to not rely upon our flesh, selfish ambitions, or good intentions; but, to know our Lord, to walk in the footsteps of our Lord, and to keep our eyes focused on and delighted in our Lord.
Maintaining our focus – we have much to be thankful for –
Terry Burlingame
My Morning Desk 