Focus

Turn off your cell phone, TV, or radio. Listen to the silence that is around you. Listen for God to speak to you.

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Read

Philippians 3:17-20 (NRSV)

Brothers and sisters, join in imitating me, and observe those who live according to the example you have in us. For many live as enemies of the cross of Christ; I have often told you of them, and now I tell you even with tears. Their end is destruction; their god is the belly; and their glory is in their shame; their minds are set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven, and it is from there that we are expecting a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.

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Reflect

My husband often refers to me as a “hoarder.” Even though I try adamantly to deny this, I am deeply aware that his comment is probably true. I do have many “things,” and these “things” get in the way of living my life. I spend so much time moving and storing “things” that I often miss out on the truly important things in life.

I think that I may use hoarding as a way of not having to deal with other issues in life. Dealing with all of those physical things distracts me from aspects of life that I do not wish to acknowledge. Everywhere we look, there are “things” that can easily distract us or keep us from those we love. If we spend all of our time focusing on “things,” are we able to see Christ in others? Are we able to love others as Christ loves us? Today, try to put aside the “things” that keep you from being an example of Christ to others.

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Pray

God, guide me as I strive to push the things that clutter my mind and life to the side. Show me what I should address so that my mind is free to focus on loving others the way you love me. Help me each day to be an example of Christ to others. In times of doubt, surround me with your loving arms. In your precious son Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Go with God.