KEEPING YOUR FOCUS ON GOD By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Hebrews 12:2 - "Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God."
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Introduction
In the modern world, many individuals have become overly concerned with themselves rather than focusing on God. The distractions of life, the struggles of daily existence, and the deceitful tactics of the enemy have led many into the bondage of self-pity, self-interest, and selfishness. However, God calls His people to keep their eyes on Jesus, the perfect example of obedience and self-denial. Jesus did not seek His own will but rather the will of the Father. As believers, we must follow His pattern by surrendering ourselves entirely to God's purpose.
When people focus solely on their own miseries and circumstances, they fall into a dangerous cycle of spiritual decay. The enemy takes advantage of self-centeredness to entangle individuals in the deception of self-pity, leading them away from God’s perfect plan. However, God desires that His people rise above the darkness and shine His light to the world. By fixing our focus on Jesus, we can overcome every hindrance and walk in the fullness of His presence and power.
This message seeks to emphasize the importance of keeping our focus on Christ, resisting the tactics of the enemy, and choosing to shine rather than whine.
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Keeping Your Eyes on Jesus
Matthew 6:33 - "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."
The believer’s primary focus must always be on Jesus. He is the perfect example of how we are to live—walking in obedience, humility, and unwavering faith in God’s plan. When we look unto Jesus, we are kept in His divine path, free from the distractions of this world.
The enemy seeks to shift our focus from Jesus to ourselves. When believers become preoccupied with their struggles, personal ambitions, or desires, they drift away from God’s will. However, by continually seeking God’s kingdom and righteousness, we align ourselves with His divine purpose, ensuring that our lives reflect His glory.
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The Dangers of Self-Pity and Selfishness
Philippians 2:3-4 - "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others."
Self-pity is one of the enemy’s most effective weapons against God’s people. It traps individuals in a cycle of negativity, leading them away from faith and into despair. When a person dwells on their own misfortunes, real or imagined, they become easy prey for demonic oppression. The spirit of self-pity welcomes individuals into its grasp, wrapping them in the chains of misery and hopelessness.
Furthermore, selfishness blinds people to the needs of others and causes them to become consumed with their own desires. This leads to a life devoid of true spiritual fulfillment. The world teaches self-advancement, but God calls His people to self-denial and sacrificial love.
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Spiritual Clarity Comes from God
Isaiah 26:3 - "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."
The lack of spiritual clarity often results from focusing on oneself rather than God. Many people struggle with confusion, anxiety, and spiritual instability because their minds are not fixed on Christ. Instead of walking in faith, they allow their emotions and circumstances to dictate their actions.
However, those who trust in the Lord and keep their minds on Him will experience perfect peace. They will not be tossed about by the storms of life but will stand firm in the assurance of God’s faithfulness.
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Resisting the Tactics of the Enemy
James 4:7 - "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."
The enemy is constantly devising strategies to keep believers in bondage. One of his primary tactics is to lure people into an obsession with their own problems. When individuals focus too much on their personal issues, they become spiritually weak, allowing the enemy to gain control over their thoughts and actions.
To resist the devil, believers must submit themselves entirely to God. Through prayer, fasting, and worship, we can break free from the grip of the enemy and walk in spiritual victory. The more we praise God and focus on His goodness, the less power the enemy has over us.
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Choosing to Shine Rather Than Whine
Matthew 5:16 - "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
God’s people are called to be the light of the world. Instead of complaining about circumstances, we must embrace our identity as children of God and reflect His love and glory. A complaining spirit darkens our testimony, whereas a heart filled with praise illuminates the goodness of God.
By cultivating a lifestyle of gratitude and worship, we allow God’s light to shine through us, drawing others into His presence. The world is filled with darkness, but believers must stand as beacons of hope, demonstrating faith in every situation.
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Summary
Believers must reject the temptation to focus on themselves and instead fix their eyes on Jesus. Self-pity, selfishness, and worldly distractions lead to spiritual blindness, but those who trust in the Lord will experience peace and clarity. By resisting the enemy’s tactics and choosing to shine rather than whine, we align ourselves with God’s purpose and walk in His divine favor.
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Conclusion
God desires that His people live in victory, not defeat. By focusing on Jesus, rejecting self-centeredness, and embracing a life of praise and obedience, we fulfill our divine calling. Each day presents an opportunity to shine for Christ and reject the deception of the enemy.
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Call to Action
Decide today to shift your focus from yourself to God. Reject self-pity and choose faith. Praise God in every situation and let His light shine through you. Resist the enemy and submit to God’s will completely.
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Final Word of Encouragement
You are created to shine, not to whine. God’s power is available to you, and He desires to use you for His glory. Stay focused on Him, and He will lead you into a life of purpose and victory.
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Prayer of Salvation
Heavenly Father, I come before You today, acknowledging that I am a sinner in need of Your grace. I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, that He died for my sins, and that He rose again on the third day. I repent of my sins and ask You to cleanse me with the blood of Jesus. I surrender my life to You and invite Jesus into my heart as my Lord and Savior. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and guide me in Your ways. Thank You for saving me and giving me eternal life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
