The spiritually mature understand that focus is not merely a mental discipline but a spiritual posture. It is a deep-rooted commitment to abiding in Christ, regardless of the storms that rage or the voices that call for attention. Jesus said in John 15:5, “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” Abiding in Him means staying connected, not allowing distractions to sever that intimacy, for it is only through this connection that true strength, wisdom, and endurance come.
One of the greatest challenges to remaining focused is the internal battle of the mind. Thoughts, anxieties, and worries can become distractions just as much as external circumstances. Yet the spiritually mature learn to take every thought captive, as Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 10:5, “Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” This means rejecting thoughts that do not align with God’s truth, refusing to entertain fears, doubts, or worldly desires that seek to pull the heart away from devotion to Christ.
Daniel is another example of one who remained focused despite distractions. When a decree was signed forbidding prayer to any god except the king, Daniel did not allow fear or the pressure of society to shift his focus. “Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime” (Daniel 6:10). His consistency in prayer, even in the face of opposition, demonstrated his spiritual maturity. He was not moved by external circumstances because his faith was deeply rooted in God.
Likewise, the spiritually mature believer develops a lifestyle of discipline that ensures they remain steadfast no matter what distractions arise. This discipline includes prayer, fasting, meditating on the Word, and maintaining a heart that is continually seeking after God. David wrote in Psalm 27:4, “One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple.” This singular focus—this desire above all else—is what guards the heart against the distractions that would seek to pull it away.
Even in times of suffering, the spiritually mature do not waver. Job, though afflicted with loss, sickness, and accusations, remained focused on God, declaring, “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him” (Job 13:15). His trust was not in his circumstances but in the character and faithfulness of God. The spiritually mature understand that focus does not mean the absence of trials; rather, it means choosing to trust God in the midst of them.
The reward of spiritual focus is peace and stability. James 1:8 warns, “A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.” When a person is easily distracted, they lack direction and become unsettled, but those who keep their eyes on the Lord walk in confidence and strength. As Psalm 112:7 declares, “He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the LORD.” The spiritually mature have a fixed heart, one that does not waver in the face of distractions, trials, or temptations.
Ultimately, focus in times of distraction is a mark of faith. It is the evidence of a life that has been fully surrendered to God, a heart that refuses to be divided, and a mind that is stayed on the promises of God. It is to walk as Jesus walked, to remain steadfast as the apostles remained steadfast, and to press toward the high calling without turning to the left or the right. In a world that constantly seeks to pull the believer in many directions, the spiritually mature will stand firm, looking unto Jesus, knowing that He alone is the way, the truth, and the life.
Selah Moment with Prophetess Dr. Althea Winifred
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