Joy is something we learn about through the story of the birth of Jesus. Focus on Jesus is something we learn through the shepherds who received the message from the angels. As we begin today, let’s not forget the message of the angels that said: “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people.’ (Luke 2:10)
Today, let’s walk fearless with our focus on God who is bigger than any problem that could come our way. Taking heart because Jesus has overcome the world and so we don’t need to focus on trouble but rather on Him. As we focus on Jesus, let’s cling to the great joy it will bring and not allow anything to distract us or cause us to let it go. Today we need to remember it isn’t just for some people but rather this good news that brings great joy is for all people!
To Focus:
To focus means to give attention, effort, or emphasis to one particular subject, situation, or person rather than another. It is the act of directing one’s attention to a specific point or task. Focusing can help improve productivity and efficiency by reducing distractions and increasing concentration. It can also help in gaining clarity and understanding of a particular subject.
meaning of focus provided by chat.bing.com
Focus on God rather than allowing circumstances rob you of your joy:
- “This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” – Psalm 118:24
- “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” – Colossians 3:2
- “No one can serve two masters.” – Matthew 6:24
These verses remind us that we should focus on God and His goodness, rather than allowing our circumstances to dictate our emotions. By keeping our minds and hearts fixed on God, we can find joy and peace even in difficult times.
Today’s Verse of the Day:
“Therefore I tell you, stop being worried or anxious (perpetually uneasy, distracted) about your life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, as to what you will wear. Is life not more than food, and the body more than clothing?
Matthew 6:25 AMP
Firstly, let’s be the dads who focus on God and stop being worried or anxious, perpetually uneasy or distracted about our lives. Secondly, let’s be the dads who look to God because we know He is the creator, provider, and sustainer and so we need not worry. Finnaly, let’s be the dads who look to God instead of our circumstances because we know that life is more than food and the body is more than clothing.
How can we put today’s verse of the day into practice and help us be the dads that our wives and kids need? What can we learn from it and do to be the dads who will meet the needs of our family while at the same time glorifying God and living our lives in His joy.
Applications of Matthew 6:25 that will help us live up to the calling of God on us to be the dads:
- Trust in God’s Provision: Trust that God, as the ultimate provider, will meet the needs of your family according to His riches and plan.
- Prioritize Relationship with God: Foster a strong personal relationship with God through prayer, meditation on His Word, and seeking His guidance in all aspects of life.
- Avoid Anxiety and Worry: Resist the temptation to be perpetually uneasy or distracted by entrusting your concerns to God in prayer and focusing on His promises.
- Model Dependence on God: Demonstrate to your family a reliance on God by involving them in prayer and showing how faith influences decision-making.
- Focus on the Present Moment: Embrace the present day, recognizing it as a gift from God, and find joy in the moments you share with your family.
- Emphasize Spiritual Values: Prioritize spiritual values over material concerns, teaching your children the importance of faith, love, and integrity.
- Discern God’s Will: Seek God’s guidance in decision-making, ensuring that your choices align with His will for your family.
- Practice Gratitude: Cultivate a heart of gratitude, acknowledging and appreciating the blessings God has provided, both big and small.
- Lead by Example: Model a lifestyle of faith, resilience, and trust in God, becoming an example for your children to follow.
- Encourage Family Worship: Establish a regular time for family worship, where you collectively engage in prayer, Bible study, and reflection on God’s goodness.
Joy requires focus on God which we can learn about in today’s verse of the day:
In summary, living out Matthew 6:25 as a father involves a continual surrender of worries, anxieties, and distractions to God, and a deliberate choice to focus on Him in all aspects of life. This approach not only brings about a sense of peace and joy but also serves as a powerful testimony to your family about the faithfulness of our Heavenly Father.
