Bringing Things Into Focus

The memory of my childhood and teenage years creates a range of emotions. The spectrum of these memories is broad and, at times, bizarre. It includes many things that I look back on with great enthusiasm. But, it also includes some other recollections that I would rather forget about.

I remember one of the first goals I ever scored in a soccer game. The 5-year-old opposing goalkeeper had been distracted by a nearby butterfly and had been lured away from the goal in his pursuit to catch it. With an empty goal awaiting and the perfect opportunity at hand, I kicked the ball and it slowly rolled across the goal line before anyone else could stop it. I was so excited. I felt confident I was on my way to stardom. I was on a pride filled, emotional high for days.

In other not so positive memories, I can remember the anxiety of asking out my first “girlfriend” in 7th grade. On a scale from “1” to “10” in awkwardness, this experience scored about a 450. I wrestled with my words and eventually stumbled into asking if she wanted to “go together.” I don’t really know what that meant, but that’s what I had heard the older kids say and I thought it might work for me, too. Where were we really going anyway? We sure couldn’t drive. It didn’t really matter in that we broke up five hours later. Actually, I was too scared to do it myself. I had a friend call and do it for me. Pitiful, huh?

As you can see, this was all very serious stuff. Well, at least it seemed that way at the time. Sadly, so much of my mental, emotional, and even physical energy is consumed by these types of things. Things that seemed so critical at the time, that now actually reside in the “not as important as they once seemed” category. It’s humbling at times to stop and examine our past and all that has commanded our time and emotions, isn’t it?

Although my stage of life has obviously changed dramatically, I am still disappointed when I allow certain things to require so much of my energy. In and of themselves, these things aren’t inherently bad or evil. As matter of fact, even really good experiences and opportunities can become harmful when appropriate perspective is lost.

Today, I encourage you to consider the areas of your life that seem to consume you. Are they really that important, or do you need to redirect your focus in some areas? Hebrews 12:1-2 reminds us to put down all that distracts us from focusing on Christ and glorifying Him with our life.

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

As ministry leaders, I know that you are bombarded by an ever growing task list and a never ending barrage of possible distractions. Be reminded today of your calling and the purpose in which He has created you. Take time to evaluate your heart and your emotional health. Refocus your eyes on your God-given passions, your purpose, and your priorities.

I’ve been praying over these thoughts. Feel free to join me.

“God, allow me to see any areas of my life that I allow to wrongly consume me. Provide me discernment and wisdom as I journey along side You. May I seek Your will and Your ways with diligence.”