Introduction

Good morning, family! Today, we're diving into a passage from the Book of Hebrews that's all about focus. Now, I don't mean the type of focus you need when you're trying to finish a crossword puzzle or watch a suspenseful movie without covering your eyes. Nope. I'm talking about spiritual focus - keeping our eyes locked on God in the midst of our everyday lives.

Our Scripture today comes from Hebrews 12:1-3,

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."

The Necessity

The necessity of keeping our focus on God is not just a suggestion or a good idea, but rather a fundamental requirement for our spiritual growth and development.

The metaphor of a race is particularly apt: Just as a runner must keep their eyes on the finish line to maintain their direction and pace, so too must we keep our focus on God to stay on the right path. If we lose sight of the finish line, we risk veering off course, slowing down, or even stopping altogether. Similarly, if we lose our focus on God, we risk falling into sin, becoming spiritually stagnant, or losing our faith.

Not just about avoiding negative consequences: It is also about drawing closer to God and deepening our relationship with Him. When we focus on God, we are more open to His guidance, more receptive to His love, and more responsive to His call. We are also more likely to reflect His character in our own lives, and to be a light to others.

A source of strength and encouragement: Life can be challenging, and there are times when we may feel overwhelmed, discouraged, or defeated. But when we keep our focus on God, we are reminded of His power, His faithfulness, and His love for us. We are reminded that He is with us, that He is for us, and that He will never leave us nor forsake us. This can give us the courage to keep going, the hope to keep believing, and the joy to keep praising, even in the midst of trials.

Helps us to keep things in perspective: It is easy to get caught up in the worries, stresses, and distractions of this world. But when we focus on God, we are reminded of what truly matters. We are reminded that this world is not our home, that our life is but a breath, and that our treasures are in heaven, not on earth. This can help us to prioritize our time, energy, and resources, and to live in a way that is pleasing to God.

A form of worship: It is a way of acknowledging His sovereignty, His majesty, and His worthiness. It is a way of expressing our love, our gratitude, and our adoration. It is a way of saying, "God, You are my King, my Lord, and my Savior, and I choose to put You first in my life."

The Benefits

Peace that surpasses all understanding: Paul talks this about in Philippians 4:7 ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO