Tuesday, 2/25/14
Yesterday I wrote that the situations we are all in are not a coincidence but rather God ordained. They are a reflection of the purpose He has for our lives. The Lord may have chosen you to play a part in the operation of a business or organization, whether large or small, or to manage a household. No matter where He has placed you, many people in your workplace or home depend on you. I trust you always keep in mind Who it is that you really work for. This way, you’ll always be intent on serving the One whose eyes are ever upon you. And when you do that, you’ll be exceptional at what you do, and bring Him honor in the process.
Believing you have that mindset, I want to remind you of one particular danger you will encounter. I am referring to Satan’s or life’s diversionary tactics. Paul wrote: See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise. (Ephesians 5:15 KJV) That simply means we should always be vigilant and aware of where we are and what we’re doing. If we want to have success or meaningful results in fulfilling our life’s purpose, concentration and focus are necessary elements. I recently cited this line from a contemporary Christian song by the Sidewalk Prophets: "forgive and forget, but don’t forget why you’re here." I take it as a reminder that we can’t forget our purpose. Jesus said in Luke 9:62 that those who look back after they’ve started plowing are not fit for God’s Kingdom. When Joshua took over as leader of God’s people after Moses’ death, the Lord commanded him to observe His law and not to turn to the right or to the left from it. (See Joshua 1)
In a World Series game between the Yankees and the Braves, Hank Aaron came up to the plate. Yogi Berra, the Yankee catcher, in order to distract him told him: “Henry, you’re holding the bat wrong. You’re supposed to hold it so you can read the trademark.” Aaron ignored him and on the next pitch, he hit the ball out of the park. When he crossed the plate, he told Yogi, “I didn’t come up here to read.” Apparently, he did not forget his purpose and his focus and concentration produced great results. Don’t let anything or anyone distract you. Stay focused in the execution of your life’s purpose. You too will get good results.
Memory verse for the week: Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. (Philippians 3:12 NIV)
