Where Is Your Focus (Part 2)

If we aren't careful, it becomes very easy for us to lose interest in the things of God.  And because of all the distractions the world has to offer, it is evident that we need God more today than ever before.  As I discussed last week a decrease in your interest in the Word of God, prayer life, giving, and worshiping with other believers are all signs that you have lost your focus.  I want to share with you some of the causes and consequences of losing focus and how to prevent it and get back on track.

Causes

There are many reasons people lose their focus from God but I want to share just four of the main causes.

1. The influence of others.  Don't be swayed by poor influences.  It's very important that you
   
   establish good godly friends who will encourage you in your faith rather than discourage you.
2. The lure of the world's ways.  The world will always have it's attractions.  John identified them as "the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life" (1 John 2:15-17). These are all a part of the world and its desire to lure you away from God.  Don't be caught up in the world's attractions.  Keep your focus on God.
3. Doubting that God really cares.  When we begin to doubt God, we begin to lose hope and start operating in unbelief.  Doubt is the opposite of faith.  Your faith is what will see you through the difficult times.
4. Giving in to temptation.  This is the end result of the previous three reasons people lose focus.  After being influenced by others, giving in to the worlds allure, and doubting that God cares, people are in prime position to just give in to the temptations of the flesh.  Be careful that sin isn't causing you to lose focus.

Consequences

Some of the consequences of losing focus are:

1. Your conscience becomes dull.
2. You step out of the will of God.
3. You shrink away from spiritual things.
4. You lose your ability to hear God.
5. You fall into the sin of unbelief (Hebrews 3:12).
6. You miss God's best for you life.
7. It affects every area of your life.
8. You have a negative impact on others when God wants us to be salt and light.
9. You have no peace.

Prevention

The question then becomes "how do I prevent this from happening?"  Well the answer is to:

1. Anchor yourself in the Word of God by reading, studying, and meditating on it (Psalm 119:15-16).
2. Obey what God says in His Word.
3. Submit to Him when He shows you an area that needs correction (James 4:7-8).
4. Surrender your life to Him each morning.
5. Stay on guard (1 Peter 5:8-9; 2 Peter 3:17-18).

How To Get Back On Track

If you find yourself "out of focus" when it comes to the things of God, the first thing you need to do, is recognize what has happened in your life.  Once you do that then simply confess it and repent and trust the Holy Spirit to enable you to follow Christ.

God has a real interest in your success.  He will give you clear warnings about any spiritual decline in your life, so pay close attention to it.  Be wise enough to recognize the warning signs and allow God to help you get back on track.

What are you doing to prevent losing your focus when it comes to the Lord?  Leave me a comment.

Pastor Temple