Psalm 16:18
“I have set the Lord continually before me; because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.”
Before I had cataract surgery last year, I suffered from a serious lack of optical focus. Cloudy vision had become problematic, especially when getting up in the middle of the night and also when driving after dark. Post-surgery, the transformation was remarkable. It was as if my vision had gone from seeing the world with a dim, incandescent light to seeing everything with bright, white LED lighting. Restoring my optical focus has been transforming for me. Focusing on other areas now requires my attention.
Focus is not only the state of having maximum clarity of an image, it also refers to a specific point of attention or interest and the ability to concentrate on a specific task or subject to make whatever adjustment is needed for clear vision. Focus also determines direction.
When it came time to decide on my “Word of the Year” for 2025, the Lord brought to mind “Focus,” and it struck a cord as I was seeking direction—a way to be intentional as I began working on specific goals for the new year. Coming fresh off of a study of Revelation, my primary goal is to keep my eyes firmly fixed in one direction—on Jesus and eternity with Him. My desire is to trust Him to direct my heart, my mind, and will, as I navigate the path He has chosen for me. In addition, focus will be especially vital as I turn my attention towards publishing a devotional book, a goal of major importance I have set for this year.
Perhaps you are like me, longing for more focus this year with trust in Jesus and His plan. How can we maintain our focus? Here is a list of helpful instructions from God’s Word that I trust will encourage all of us.
•Let us RID ourselves of any sin, that may diminish our focus in running the race:
“Therefore, since we also have such a great cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let’s rid ourselves of every obstacle and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let’s run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking only at Jesus, the originator and perfecter of the faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Heb.12:1-2)
•Let us LOOK directly ahead, keeping our focus fixed on Jesus:
“Let your eyes look directly ahead, and let your gaze be fixed straight in front of you.” (Prov. 4:25)
•Let us WATCH the path ahead, staying focused so we do not veer off in the wrong direction.
“Watch the path of your feet, and all your ways will be established. Do not turn to the right or to the left; turn your foot from evil.” (Prov.: 4: 26-27)
•Let us PRESS ON towards the prize :
“I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 3:14)
May this new year of focus result in greater love for Jesus, His Word, more trust in His plan, and an increase in our longing for eternity. Let us keep our eyes on Jesus!
Dear Heavenly Father, as we step into another new year, with a lot of unknowns ahead, may our eyes be firmly focused on You to make our steps prayerful, humble, watchful, and determined. May our eyes focus on eternity, bringing honor and glory to You and Your Son, Jesus, in whose name we pray. Amen.
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