Are You Focused or Fickled?
Acts 14:21-22 says, “Paul and Barnabas proclaimed the good news to the people in Derbe and made many disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, where they strengthened the disciples and urged them to remain firm in the faith” (CEB).
People are fickled. When Paul and Barnabas arrive in Lystra and a man is healed by Paul’s word, those who see are first ready to sacrifice animals to Paul and Barnabas thinking they are gods. But, after certain Jews arrive and stir up the crowds against the two missionaries, Paul is stoned and left for dead (Acts 14:19). Yes, people are fickled.
How do Paul and Barnabas respond? Luke says they continued to proclaim “the good news to the people” and “they strengthened the disciples and urged them to remain firm in the faith” (Acts 14:21-22).
To put it simply, Paul and Barnabas stayed focused on God’s mission which was for the Word to be preached and disciples to be made and built up.
There are many distractions that can cause ministers, people, and the church to lose focus. We need to recognize that is how Satan frustrates God’s work.
We need to keep our focus on God’s Word, making disciples, and strengthening and being strengthened in the faith. All else is distraction for God’s will.
What do believers who are focused on God’s will do? They pray, search the Scriptures, worship, practice accountable discipleship, serve those in need, and share their faith. These are the main things that we should give ourselves to as God’s people. All else is distraction and displeases God.
Someone asked me recently if I believe we live in the last days. I responded, “Yes, and we have been ever since Jesus came!” We don’t have time to waste! Let us proclaim and receive the Word of God and live as disciples who strengthen others on our journey.
Galatians 6:9 says, “So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up” (NRSVUE).
Let’s pray: Almighty God, help us to focus on the main things and to put aside the distractions from doing your will and advancing your kingdom. Amen.
God Bless You!
Pastor Bowers
