Focus And Stay Focused

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8

When a person works full time many times it is easier to not rehash problems in life. You stay occupied so therefore do not think about things. I have heard many messages lately about keeping your mind focused. You have to be intentional about not thinking about stuff that simply drags you down. It could be worrying about finances. Perhaps it is wondering why a friend has rejected you. Maybe speculating about things. Perhaps just plain old worry.

If you have a habit of focusing on negative or worrying or wondering about things try getting up and first thing saying "Jesus today I give you my thoughts." Once you declare that do not start drifting into old habits. Make up your mind you will 'capture' wrong thoughts and turn them about to thoughts that lift and build up. Start saying out loud things like "Thanks for taking my concerns.Thanks for your joy. Thanks for peace only you can give. I choose to focus on things above and reject wrong thinking." 

Now once you have accomplished those statements practice doing them. Open up the word of God and read a few Psalms and some of perhaps the book of John. I guarantee your thinking will improve. Before you know it you will be able to cast off wrong thinking.

PRAYER: Thanks Lord that you made me and you love me. You want me to have good thoughts. Help me live in the present and give me your strength to reject wrong thinking which is not from you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Fixated?

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:8-9

 What is it you are fixated on? Not in an obsessive compulsive sort of way but what captures your attention or gets the majority of your free time? In Hebrews 12:2 it says "fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." To 'fix' it to purposely set your eyes as if concrete was poured and they are 'set' firm and hard. Instead of being concerned with the evil all around us we are to 'fix' our gaze straight ahead right at the cross of Jesus Christ. He's got our back.

He is wanting you to be sick at heart over Satan's destruction but wants you 'fixed' on Him and His awesome power for He has overcome this world. Today stop what you are doing and confess to Jesus your worry and fear then 'fix' your gaze upon Him.

 PRAYER: Help me Lord not fall into Satan's trap of fear and worry. You are greater and have overcome this world. I put my hope in you today and always. In Jesus' name. Amen.