What is Your Focus?

This is a good question to ask during these days of Covid-19. Many individuals are focused on doing what they need to do to keep themselves and their family members safe such as washing hands, personal distancing, and staying at home. Some companies are focusing on the medical needs of those who have the virus. Others are focused on finding a vaccine for the virus. Still other companies are focusing on providing masks, shields, gowns, ventilators, and other personal protective equipment. All these physical things are important. But if we continue to focus on the troubles of life, that only diverts our attention away from God.

Yes, we need to think about and work on these physical things during the Covid-19 crisis; however, people seem to dismiss, forget, or are clueless concerning focusing on the spiritual dimension of life. The Bible reminds us that there are earthly things and “things above” (heavenly things). It says, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2). Are earthly things important? Yes, they are. However, we should not focus on earthly things and neglect heavenly things. If we focus on “earthly things” exclusively, we will become miserable and unsatisfied. The words “set your minds” means to concentrate by using your thoughts. It means to think about, place your attention on, and to ponder the things that are heavenly. Other portions of Scripture tell us to “fix our eyes on Jesus” (Hebrews 12:2) and “fix your thoughts on Jesus” (Hebrews 3:1).

With our minds and thoughts focused on spiritual things we will have God’s strength as we turn to physical things. God says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10). A good question for all of us to consider is, “Do I keep a heavenly perspective when it comes to my focus?