Precious Moments That Count For EternitySample

Focus is Everything!

Recently, I went through a rather difficult phase in my career. I had given up my job without another offer and was unemployed for two months. As the days went by, it seemed to get tougher, dealing with people’s questions and unappealing job offers. But every time I got into God’s presence, I found myself at peace. I’d just pick up my guitar and worship for hours together. When I was done, I would find myself filled with an inexplicable joy and sometimes a new song in my heart.

As I focused on God, I was able to see my situation in the light of who He is; it made my problem just shrink. Though I eventually got a job, my biggest victory was being able to rejoice in the face of uncertainty and rejection. The joy of the Lord truly became my strength.

Psalm 16:11 says, In Your presence there is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore. When we turn our attention away from our problems and focus on God instead, He doesn’t just give us the victory (pleasures), He fills us with His incomprehensible joy. The kind that makes people wonder what is wrong with us. The kind that makes them ask, ‘How can you be so happy when things around you are so bleak?’

If you are going through a tough situation, and you feel like you are all alone, know this: God is calling you into His presence. As you worship Him, your worry and despair will be replaced with joy and hope. Lay your cares down, focus on Him and rejoice! The victory is coming!

Prayer
Father God, teach me to fix my eyes on You at all times. I thank You for Your incomprehensible joy that floods my heart when I choose to focus on You and not on my problem. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.