January 29: Three Reminders

Just three days ago I was reflecting (more like babbling) about my lack of focus and my desire to change that. I prayed that God would take every thought captive. This morning I opened my devotions (Jesus Calling) and the first words I read were, "Keep your focus on Me. I have gifted you with amazing freedom, including the ability to choose the focal point of your mind." First of all, wow! Secondly, ouch. I love how God works in our lives. His timing is perfect. I needed encouragement that He cares about my struggles. I also needed to be reminded of my role: I have some freedom over what I allow my mind to focus on.

The reading goes on to say that this capability is a sign of having been made in His image. That Genesis reference is one that struck me powerfully during our church service last week, and I've even used it in conversations with a friend this week. When did we forget in whose image we were created?! Another reminder in His perfect timing.

The reading goes on to share 2 Corinthians 10:5, in which we are commanded to bring every thought captive, into obedience to Christ. That is my goal for today, not this month or this year, but today. And that when (not if) my mind wanders away from Him, I need to lasso it and bring it back. It is only in Him that we find real peace. Lies are exposed in His light. Confusion melts away in the presence of His peace. So, today. I'll start with today and live as though I am in His presence. For I am! Matthew 28:20 is a promise.

Today brought to light that I'm still focusing on stuff... whether I have it, miss it, want it, need it, buy it, or pass it up. The precise point of this journey is to move away from the mind traps of material things. Instead I've let my mind linger longer than I should on things that aren't eternal. I'll still address material issues as I go through these months, but I must keep them in perspective, bringing my thoughts about them into obedience to Christ.

It's as if God and I were sharing a private moment, a sideways glance and smile when I read my devotions this morning. Three sweet reminders from my Father that He knows my heart and He cares.