Stay focused

There are so many distractions today. We need to be focused on what really matters in life. Even good things can distract from the best.
That begs the question, "What is the Best?"
For me the best is simple. God, the kingdom of God and pleasing Him are the best. Jesus said, Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all things will be added to you."
I am reminded of the passage we call the parable of the sower where Jesus describes how the seed is choked out and bears no fruit. The cares, the pursuit of pleasure and riches chokes the seed of God's word out. All of us who are followers of Jesus want to bear fruit for fruit bearing is what pleases God.

How do we do it?
Practical thoughts: Prioritise time with God. Talk to Him. Better yet, listen to Him.
Read the Book of books. Continually, renew your mind to think like God thinks by soaking your mind in the truth of God's word. This will keep your faith God focused and vital.
Finally, remove any thing that eats up your time to be, do, and live like God wants you too. Even books, TV, movies or work can suck the life out of you. Anything that is before our relationship with God is really an idol, and must not be allowed to remain.

May you realign your life and make your God your forever priority!
in Him,
Hugh

Simple Truths
This Sunday I preached at a men's retreat in the Selway/Bitterroot wilderness about the Swiss Army knife.
The one I bought is called a super Tinker. it has 14 functions and is multi-purpose.
I talked about how this tool is like God's word. or vice versa.
First you have to have a need before you need a tool to fix or repair it.
Then you have to gain knowledge of the tool. You have to open the package and explore the contents. Finally, you have to use it. Apply what you have learned.

In the same way, we have to acknowledge our need. We need God and all the tools to repair our brokenness. All have sinned and come short...
Secondly we need to open the package and gain knowledge of God's word. we have to soak in it and eat it and drink it in until it becomes a part of us.
Finally we need to apply what we are reading and thinking about in God's word and according to 2 Peter we will be partakers of the divine nature as we believe and act on the precious promises.

I am challenged to more acting on it and keep taking it in.
I know it will change my life.

Stay focused!

I'm struggling right now to stay focused. I think this happens every summer. maybe it's because I grew up having a summer vacation every year.
But whatever the reason, I cannot afford to be distracted by the cares, and pleasures of the season and need to press in to God and the things of God.
Lord guide and direct my thoughts and time and focus me!

Ready for a break in Carmel

Saturday, Ronda and I and two friends are heading to Calif. for a weeks well deserved rest and recreation. there is so much to do in Carmel and Monterey. Should be a blast. Taking camera's and books and prepared to relax with gusto!
Lord, let us let go of the stuff! Help us to shift gears and enjoy you, your creation and one another.