On
the battlefields of the American Civil War, many soldiers became
paralyzed with fear. Others weren’t clear what to do. But some were able
to rise above their fears, with an unusual ability to focus on their
mission, their objective, and their duty.
When
Northern general Ulysses S. Grant was asked by another officer if he
ever felt fear, he replied, “I never had time.” He was so focused on
doing his duty that he did not stop to think about the possibility of
fear.
Other
soldiers had this same ability to focus. Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson, a
great general of the Southern armies, declared this “statement of
principle”: “Never take counsel of your fears.” He, too, demonstrated an
unwavering, undistracted commitment to the goals before him.
Jesus
knew that His followers would be tempted to get distracted. Many would
be afraid or anxious. Others would be worried or uncertain. But He
encouraged us to realize that God was watching to see how we would
respond—whether we would allow ourselves to become distracted.
This
was an important warning. Those who are idle or distracted are
vulnerable. They can become obsessed with rumors and gossip, and they
easily can chase the wrong goals.
In contrast, the Bible tells us that God promises special blessings to those who are diligent in serving Him—who stay busy doing His work, without letting anything distract them.
Although
we don’t know what will happen from one minute to the next, God calls
us to serve Him diligently in every situation. We’re called to be
focused on His Kingdom, always seeking to do His work. Instead of
allowing ourselves to be sidetracked, we must stay alert and ready.
Today,
examine your life. Submit yourself anew to the Lord, and allow Him to
direct your steps. Make sure you know His mission for you. Seek to
please Him.
No comments:
Post a Comment