Staying Focused

• 2 Timothy 4:5 (ASV)

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Scripture:

But you—keep your eye on what you’re doing; accept the hard times along with the good; keep the Message alive; do a thorough job as God’s servant. (MSG)

But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don't be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you. (NLT)

Observation:

Paul writes to Timothy that there will be times when people are not interested in solid teaching. Rather they will seek out teaching that fits their desires, with what they want to hear.

Timothy is encouraged to keep his head, a clear mind in all situations, to endure hardship and suffering, to work at telling the God News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given him.

Application:

Our world today seems to be all about fitting reality to our desires. It is easy to be distracted, to lose focus, to lose heart, when what you’re offering is rejected. This is true for a “sales” or product message as well as the Message!

To respond well, a clear mind is essential, to think through a right response or solid positioning. It is the hard times that make you think through the value and benefit, focus more on the message and be thorough with the work - there is no need to when it isn’t challenged.

Prayer:

Lord, help me to stay focused on what You have called me to do, even when it is hard. Inspire me to be creative in living and keeping the Message alive.

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