Where Is Our Focus?

Friday, August 28

Mark 8:36 (NIV)

“What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?”

Devotion

How tragic it would be to live a life of leisure, wealth, and success here on earth, only to die and spend an eternity in hell. And yet, this reality exists for those who spend their lives focused on the things of this world and neglecting what truly matters. We each must ask the question: Where is our focus? Is it on the pleasures offered here on earth or the rewards that can be ours in heaven? Is it on the riches to be found here or the riches found in glory? Is it on becoming famous here on earth or famous in heaven?

Are we more focused on our platforms, financial status, and appearance than we are on the salvation of our family members? Colossians 3:2 provides the following instruction: “Set your mind and keep focused habitually on the things above [the heavenly things], not on things that are on the earth [which have only temporal value].” Homes, cars, clothes, and our bank accounts are things we can see, but they are temporary, brief, and fleeting; however, salvation and the things of the Lord are invisible, but they last forever (2 Corinthians 4:18).

The good news is that when we put the Lord first in our lives, He will take care of everything else. He is to be our highest priority. “But first and most importantly seek (aim at, strive after) His kingdom and His righteousness [His way of doing and being right—the attitude and character of God], and all these things will be given to you also” (Matthew 6:33). When we make Him the focus of our lives, our families, and our homes, He is faithful to provide everything else we need for life and godliness!

Today's Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

Ruler of the universe, we ask You to come and rule in our hearts, our family, and our home. Help us focus on You. Set us apart for Your purposes, and don’t let us be distracted by the fleeting things of this world. Have Your way. In the Name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Apply It Today

Evaluate your priorities and consider what receives most of your time, attention, and energy. Make a conscious choice to invest more in the things that have eternal value and keep your focus on Christ.

Resources

• What are you seeking first? Discover the power of putting God’s Kingdom above everything else. Watch the message “Seek” and be encouraged to seek Him first and trust Him with everything else.

• No matter where you are in the world, you can be part of Divine Conference! Purchase your Streampass today and join this incredible experience online! Visit divineconference.org for more information.