Hebrews 12 vs 1 – 2
“vs1; Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth easily beset, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, vs2; Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God” – KJV
The scripture above is a reminder to us as Christians, as to where our focus must be for each and every day we live. Continuing from Hebrews 11, it reminds us of the testimonies from scriptures of our fathers and mothers (those who have gone ahead of us) who exercised their faith in God, trusting him in the face of difficult situations or when all hope was lost.
This faith they had in God, ensured that they obtained a good report at the end of their race. And having had these examples, we have no excuses not to finish our own Christian race even stronger.
Knowing that the cares, perils and needs of life may distract us from our focus which should be Jesus at all times, we are reminded from the book of Matthew 6 vs 19 – 34 that our heavenly father understands that we have these needs and is both willing and able to provide them for us. This is however only possible if we focus on him, Matthew 6 vs 33 says “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you” – KJV.
In ensuring that Jesus is our focus, we must ensure that we make Him the most important treasure in our lives. Matthew 6 vs 21 says “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” – KJV. In as much as we may claim Jesus to be our Lord and saviour and the most important person to us, it is proven in the decisions we make and in the actions we take every day. Ask yourself:
• How do I decide the best actions to take? In prayer?
• Who do I consider when I make the most important decisions of my life?
• Am I willing to obey God not minding what everyone else says?
The answers to these questions will guide you as to where your treasures lie. Remember the bible says in Proverbs 4 vs 23, “Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it are the issues of life” – KJV. And since your heart lies where your treasure is, the outcome of your life will be borne out of where your treasure is.
This is the reason for the increased rate of depression and suicide today, for when our hearts are focused on the things of life (which are unstable), our lives become subject to the rollercoaster ride of life. However, when Jesus is your focus, no matter what happens you remain strong, hopeful and Joyous like our fathers of faith of old who trusted God not minding their predicaments.
God has called and ordained us as Kings and Queens to reign upon the earth, but this will only be brought to manifestation if we live every day with Jesus as our focus (and doing his will as our goal).
Focusing on God will ensure that the decisions you make will always be in line with God’s will for you no matter whose ‘ox is gored’ and remember God always wants the best for you, Jeremiah 29 vs 11 says, “For I know the thoughts that I think towards you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end” – KJV. God has designed the race/journey of your life with a beautiful end, so LET YOUR FOCUS BE ON GOD!
The sermon was delivered at the Special Talents Service on Sunday, November 17, 2019.
