Introduction
I’m not ashamed to be called a lectiophile these days. I used to be a bibliophile, but that changed when I found reading books was just as much fun as buying books. I’m an ardent reader, and my favorite subject is ‘Jesus.’ Second to that might be quantum computing. After all, I have an MS degree in computer science. This article explores how to keep focus on Jesus and not on quantum mechanics or other subjects.
Maintaining a steadfast focus on Jesus Christ can be formidable in a world teeming with distractions and challenges. Drawing inspiration from the life of the renowned evangelist Billy Graham, we’ll explore the tools needed to keep our eyes focused on Jesus. We’ll also explore two pertinent Scripture verses that underscore the importance of this focus.
Understanding the Importance of Focus
… "looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God."
Hebrews 12:2 (ESV)
This verse encapsulates the essence of focusing on Jesus. It’s about recognizing Him as the initiator of our faith and its ultimate fulfiller. The journey of faith is riddled with distractions, but keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus can guide us every moment of our day.
Billy Graham: A Model of Unwavering Focus
My years have been filled with reading books and articles by theologians and philosophers such as Saint Augustine, Blaise Pascal, Soren Kierkegaard, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Corrie ten Boom, and C. S. Lewis. Some more contemporary authors are Tony Evans, Paul David Tripp, Chris Tiegreen, Gavin Ortlund, Bob Goff, Milliard J. Erickson, and many others.
But my all-time favorite is Billy Graham. I had the opportunity to attend one of his crusades when a work colleague took me to Rice Stadium in Houston in the early 1980s. To me, Billy Graham exemplified the focus on Jesus every person should strive for. His unwavering commitment to preaching the Gospel was a testament to his dedication to Christ. Graham once said, “My one purpose in life is to help people find a personal relationship with God, which, I believe, comes through knowing Christ.” This statement is a powerful testament to his focus on Jesus, making it the central theme of his life’s work.
Daily Commitment to Prayer and Scripture
Graham’s life was steeped in daily practices that anchored him in his faith. Regular prayer and engagement with the Bible were non-negotiable aspects of his routine. He understood that to keep one’s focus on Jesus, one must continually commune with Him and delve into His word.
Public Ministry and Personal Integrity
Graham’s public ministry was also a reflection of his focus on Christ. He ensured that his simple messages were deeply rooted in Christ-centric teachings. His integrity and avoidance of moral failings were pivotal in maintaining a ministry focused solely on Jesus, untainted by personal scandal.
All believers have a public ministry, whether we acknowledge it or not. Conducting ourselves in a way that reflects Jesus is what we are called to do daily. Keeping our eyes on Jesus is necessary to walk with Him and reflect His love in this chaotic world.
Practical Steps to Focus on Jesus
"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."
Matthew 6:33 (ESV)
Matthew 6:33 is a pivotal verse in understanding the priorities that Jesus outlines for His followers. At its core, this scripture invites believers to realign their lives so that their primary pursuit is the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Seeking the kingdom of God entails committing oneself to God’s divine rule and reign in one’s life, acknowledging His sovereignty in all things. It means prioritizing God’s will and commandments above worldly concerns and desires.
Pursuing His righteousness involves striving to live a life reflecting God’s character — moral uprightness, justice, love, and mercy. This is not a righteousness that comes from our efforts but one that is imputed to us through faith in Jesus Christ and outworked through the Holy Spirit’s transformation of our lives.
The latter part of the verse contains a promise: “and all these things will be added to you.” This refers to the provision of our needs. Jesus addressed this after discussing the common human anxieties about food, clothing, and necessities of life. Here, He reassures His followers that their essential needs will be addressed when prioritizing His kingdom and righteousness. God, in His faithful character, will provide. It is a call to trust in the Father’s providence and care rather than being consumed by material worries and to rest in the assurance that our temporal needs are known to Him, who is eternal.
Creating a Daily Routine
Like Billy Graham, incorporating daily prayer and Bible study is a practical step towards keeping our focus on Jesus. These routines create a strong foundation, aligning our thoughts and actions with Christ.
Serving Others
Jesus’ ministry was characterized by service to others. Following His example, serving in our communities, and helping those in need can help us maintain our focus on Him.
Fellowship and Accountability
Regular fellowship with other believers and accountability to someone in our spiritual journey can significantly aid in maintaining our focus on Jesus. It keeps us grounded and provides support in our faith journey.
Continuous Learning
Engaging with Christian literature, sermons, and teachings, like those of Billy Graham and others, can also help us stay focused on Jesus. They provide insights and perspectives that deepen our understanding and commitment.
Conclusion
Focusing on Jesus is a continuous journey that requires dedication, much like the examples set by Billy Graham. It involves daily commitment, integrity in our personal and public lives, authentic living out of our faith, and a willingness to embrace the cost of discipleship. As we continue focusing on Jesus, let us draw inspiration from Billy Graham’s life, and especially the wisdom we find in the Scriptures, God’s Word.
