January 16, 2019
The title on the cover of the book reads: “FOCUS The Future of Your Company Depends On It.” I met the author, Al Ries and his partner, Jack Trout in New York City at their ad agency some years back about another book he co-authored: “Positioning: The Battle For Your Mind.” I recommend both books.
The critical statement Reis makes in FOCUS is, “Nothing succeeds in life . . . Or in business… like a carefully selected, carefully chiseled focus.”
Our attention spans are dwindling. Think about this past Sunday’s one-hour worship service. How many times did you find your mind wandering during the music and sermon? You had good intentions, but they’re many things vie for our attention.
Author, B. Eugene Griessman writes, “Don’t scatter your focus.” And, National Bestseller, David Allen says “Defining specific projects and next actions that address real quality-of-life issues is productivity at its best.”
If Christians buy into the idea, that focus will help them be a better Christian, they miss the point. The focus is important. What you focus on is the most important.
Misguided Christians may focus on the pastor, their church, themselves, other Christians and/or family. The focus isn’t on the unsaved. The more significant question is what should you focus on? The answer is easy; Jesus Christ.
By focusing on Jesus, it prioritizes the other opportunities and they become more clear. Concentrating on Jesus gives you direction for what He wants you to do. The writer of Proverbs says, “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established” (Proverbs 16:3).
The Old Testament prophet Isaiah reminds of the grand earthly reward for staying focused on God. “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you because he trusts in you” (Isaiah 26:3).
Seven Ways To Stay Focused In A World Full Of Distractions.
- Pay attention.
- Spend more time in the now.
- Do only one thing at a time.
- Start with one project and get started.
- Do God’s activities first.
- Eliminate distractions and time wasters.
- Always remind yourself of your ultimate goal, to serve God.
The idea is to focus on the priority things, and the Christian’s focus begins with focusing on Jesus!