Last summer – in the midst of Covid, riots, and an upcoming election that had people polarized like never before, spewing anger and hatred toward anyone who didn’t agree with them – the Lord reminded me to shift my focus from things on this earth to things that last for eternity.
I found myself getting caught up in everything to the point of tears that so many people – Christians included, sometimes me too – are posting hateful things. I felt anger rising, I had to step away. I’d been giving way too much time to pursuing politics, knowledge, and what happened in the cities, and my heart was changing. I was losing my peace!
Fast forward to today. I need this reminder now more than ever! People are still polarized, and added now is increased assault on individual rights and freedoms, the ongoing vaccine debate, and so much more. Added to the anger and hate is fear – so much fear – as freedom-taking laws are presented that we would have never thought possible a few years ago.
But God.
Through these timely messages, God reminded me that eternal life is what matters.
- I re-read two books God brought to mind: Driven by Eternityby John Bevere, and Final Quest by Rick Joyner. Both brought a welcome conviction to me about where I focused – in the here and now – and compelled me to look at the motives of my heart.
- A friend shared a thought God brought to her during her worship time: look around. All you see is meaningless – it’s all meaningless (meaning, all temporary things of this earth).
- Devotional entries about focusing on eternity, and on God vs. on the things around us.
- Another friend reminded me that this earth is not our home; don’t try to be comfortable here.
God re-lit a passion in my heart to pray. He increased pressure to help me shut my mouth (well, most of the time…still needs work) so I don’t fuel the mess. He is guiding me to let go of my judgment of people, and inspiring me to bring His light with my words and social media posts.
God continues to impress on me of the importance of starting e.v.e.r.y day with Him. Read the Bible, my devotionals, and pray. Get God’s perspective. We can only pour out what is inside us. And then GO and don’t be afraid to speak up about His Kingdom, encouraging those who are fearful. Shine the light of peace and hope – that there is more than this world to look forward to.
God so loved the world. ALL the world, not just those we agree with or those who are behaving correctly. ALL includes the rioters, the haters, and the murderers. ALL includes the media. ALL includes politicians. ALL people need truth and eternal security that only God can provide. They don’t need our agreement, acceptance, tolerance, or more hate/anger/judgment.
If we focus on things of this world, we’ll fall prey to getting sucked in to the crisis-du-jour and forget what’s important. Changing focus takes effort and time, but it’s the only way we’ll be at peace…and make a difference for the Kingdom.
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son,
that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
(John 3:16)
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness,
and all these things will be given to you as well.
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow,
for tomorrow will worry about itself.
Each day has enough trouble of its own.
(Matthew 6:33-34)
Lord, thank you for Jesus, who made it possible for me to spend eternity with You in heaven.
Please help me to focus on what’s important to you today.
Help me surrender my emotions to you, and give me eternal perspective
for whatever I encounter today.
