Have you noticed that people tend to look straight ahead when trying to maintain their balance? Whether it be a tightrope performer or an individual attempting a sobriety test by walking a straight line, the tendency is to keep their focus on an object in front of them. Looking elsewhere causes a loss of concentration and steadiness. Plus, there is something supportive about centering on the target goal; internal as well as external distractions fade in the sidelines.
Walking with Jesus is like that. When we take our eyes off Him, we are bombarded with internal and external diversions battling for our attention. Diversions such as fear, insecurity, doubt, temptations, and worldly pleasures can block our target goal of following Jesus. Recently, I went to the pool with a friend and her toddler. The child excitedly jumped in the pool as my friend held out her arms, giggling excitedly. Yet when he didn’t see his mother’s opened arms, he refused to go any further as he panicked with fear. Obviously, his ability to ‘swim’ didn’t change, nor did the depth of the pool. His goal of being in his mother’s arms was removed.
With our Christian walk, everything and everyone around us is changing, yet Jesus stays the same. He doesn’t move, rather our focus on him shifts.
Hebrews 12:2 says, “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus…” Notice it doesn’t say ‘let us look to Jesus’ but rather fix our eyes, meaning glue or attach your eyes on Jesus. Don’t look away. Scripture is filled with verses related to staying on the right path and not going the way of the wicked. Instead of being pulled away by internal and external distractions, focus on the eternal by focusing on the Jesus.
Shelly is a 30 something year old licensed therapist with cerebral palsy who is transitioning onto a whole new path in her life. As someone who was never limited by her disability, through recent declines in her health and abilities, God is humbling her despite her stubborn resistance. She is closer to Jesus than she ever has been as He carries her with His strength, protects her with His armor, and empowers her with His Spirit.She uses her writing and speaking gifts to fulfill her ultimate purpose of bringing glory to God through her life.