Focus: Purpose and Temptation

Life is full of temptation and challenges. When we are faced with temptation, and during the difficult times in life, how do we respond? Who do we turn to for advice? Are we open to learning? How do we rise up? During this time it is essential that we grow, learn discipline and the art of depending on God, broken of self-sufficiency and promotion, solidify our mission, gain perspective, and prepare for our next great purpose. We learn to lead ourselves so that we can lead others. 

Image courtesy of: YEQ

Scripture:
“But he said to them, ‘I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.'” – Luke 4:43

Observation/Application: 
When Jesus came out of the wilderness, he returned in the “power of the Spirit”. This is our goal, to be so close to God that He is able to work in and through us, and that we can be launched into our calling, filled with the power of the Spirit and with passion. Also we should learn that we need to make time to spend time in a solitary place, to spend time with God, praying, and to keep focus.

And as we might rise to success, we too will be tempted and distracted. That is a primary tactic of the enemy. But we can overcome by modeling Jesus. Notice how he was so focused and clear on his mission and purpose, that he did not fall prey to distraction and temptation. Even people who mean well will distract us. Notice that when Jesus performed all of these miracles the people “tried to keep him from leaving them” (4:43). But Jesus was focused and locked in on his purpose, and was unable to be deterred or distracted.  He had to leave the people to proclaim the good news in other towns, “because that is why I was sent.”  When you know your purpose, it is much easier to not be distracted. It all starts with purpose, a clear vision, and focus.

How did Jesus remain so clear and focused? He stayed focused on God. Just as Jesus was led by the Spirit when he was being tempted in the wilderness (Luke 4:1), so too should we seek the Lord first and walk in His holy Presence. Just as Jesus was tempted for legitimate needs like food, we can make it through if we seek and rely on God. No matter what challenges we face today, no matter what wilderness we might find ourselves in, no matter what success we might be experiencing today, let that not detract us from the Lord our God. For all blessings, far greater than the mind can conceive, can be found in Him!

Prayer:
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for your great word. Fill us with your infinite wisdom, and let us walk in the power of your Holy Spirit. Let your divine purpose be revealed in us and help us to keep focused on our calling, and on You. Let us pray without ceasing, and walk in the glory of your holy ways. Let your good work be done in us, and through us, so that others might witness you first hand Lord, for their salvation and your eternal glory.  Bless our families, our friends, and all who you bring into our lives Lord, that we might be a blessing to them, and learn from the time and experience together Lord. We receive all of this, in the name of your one and only Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Photo By YEQ

Please follow and like us: