Thursday, January 2, 2014

Bobble Head

by Tim Howard

Do you remember the ‘Bobble Head’ figures that some people put in the back window of their cars? As the automobile moved down the highway, the body of the little figure would remain stable while the head would bobble back and forth. Well, they’re making a comeback… Just check out Duck Dynasty or America’s Funniest Video.

If you aren’t careful, you can live your life like a Bobble Head. You can move through the days, weeks, months and even years without focusing on anything while looking at everything. If you want to develop a shallow and superficial life then keep on doing that. Look at everything but don’t focus on anything.

King David said in Psalms 103:  “I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless.” He was committed to looking straight ahead and maintaining focus.

At a certain age many people notice a change happening in their vision. To correct their problem and see clearly they often need to embrace glasses. Whether you are old or young, however, the need to see life and maintain a clear focus is extremely important, especially at the beginning of a new year like 2014. What you focus on will direct your steps. Someone said: “ What gets your attention will ultimately get you.”

Without focus you will spend endless amounts of energy engaging in things that are very unproductive.  Your schedule will be busy but progress will be minimal.

Paul the Apostle described his focus this way in Phil 3:12-16 “ …I've got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus.  I'm off and running, and I'm not turning back.  So let's keep focused on that goal, those of us who want everything God has for us.”

As 2014 has already commenced, you’ll benefit greatly if you set your sights on those things that are worthy of your attention. Like David, Paul the Apostle focused his attention on becoming all he was created to be.  He knew God had a plan for him and he was committed to fulfilling it.  It was the focal point of his life and in so doing; he developed a deep, stable and satisfying life.  If it happened for Paul, it can happen for you too.

 Here are 5 things the Bible tells us to look at and focus on:

1.     Look to Jesus for your help and strength. When times are difficult, keep your eyes focused on Jesus.

2.     Look for people to help. God has gifted you with talents, abilities and resources for the purpose of assisting others. You are created for a purpose and when you help someone in need, you are fulfilled.

3.     Look at what a person can be rather than what they are right now. It will free them and help you maintain a right attitude.

4.     Look at what you have rather than what you don’t have. It will create a spirit of gratitude and dispel negativism.

5.     Look for the good and not just the bad. There’s an abundance of both so don’t forget – there’s always a sun behind the clouds.

The effect of 2014 will largely be determined by what you choose to focus on so take the words of David and Paul as words of instruction and don’t focus on anything that is worthless. Don’t be a Bobble Head.

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