Lesson 3  March 17, 2004

Definition of “Focus” 

The verb “focus” means “to bring into view, to make something clear.” The idea is “clarity.”

 

But focus also means “to devote oneself to a task, or to an idea, or to a person, or to whatever is in one’s field of vision.”

A point of focus then is a place of activity, concentration, influence, importance, or even determination. It is a point of origin from which ideas, beliefs, influences, and controls emanate.

 

 

 

Applying the principle of focus to God and His Word, we are talking about so focusing on the truths of Scripture concerning God, His person, promises, principles, His plan, and purposes that we not only see them with spiritual clarity, but they become the focal point of our thinking, a place of mental activity, correction, influence, and therefore control over our minds, emotions, and volition.

 

 

Illustrations from Scripture

 

2 Corinthians 4:16-18

 

 

 

Philippians 3:12‑21   

 

 

1 Peter 1:13‑21

 

 

There are three objectives and demands in this text:

(a)  There are demands in relation to the flesh (verse 14),  lusts or desires which have their roots in ignorance.  Why? 

Because they are rooted in wrong beliefs, falling for the delusions of Satan and that of our own sin nature, thinking such things can give security, significance, and happiness.

 

(b)  Then there are demands in relation to God who is holy, set apart from sin (verses 15-16). Finally,

 

(c)  there are demands in relation to the world and its value system which lives as though ‘we only go around once so get all the gusto you can.’

 

The responsibility so vital to our ability to accomplish these objectives is seen in verse 13.

 

 

Such action prepares the way for the next command, “be sober.”

 

Set your hope completely” is, however, the key point.

 

 

The great need is to stay single-minded with a single focus in spite of the many worldly distractions all around us.

 

Hebrews 12:1-3

 

These witnesses (chapter 11)  provide a constant testimony to the life of faith which stands as an incentive for us to run with endurance the race God has marked out for each of us regardless of the difficulties.

 

How, then, did Christ  endure what He had to suffer?

Though He despised the shame of the cross, He kept His eyes focused on the final goal seen in the words, “who for the joy set before Him endured the cross. 

 

 

So important is this truth, that verse 3 continues the concept of focus and right thinking.

 

 

 

There is in this command, a call to look carefully at the end result of the Savior’s faith in the Father's plan as it applies to you.