Focus

Focus, in a biblical context, refers to the intentional and unwavering attention given to God, His Word, and His purposes. The Bible frequently emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clear and steadfast focus on spiritual matters, as distractions can lead believers away from their faith and calling.

One of the most illustrative examples of focus is found in the account of Peter walking on water. In Matthew 14:28-30 , Peter steps out of the boat to walk toward Jesus. "Lord, if it is You," Peter replied, "command me to come to You on the water." "Come," said Jesus. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water, and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the strength of the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!" Peter's initial focus on Jesus allowed him to perform the miraculous, but when he shifted his focus to the storm, he began to sink. This passage underscores the necessity of keeping one's eyes fixed on Christ amidst life's challenges.

The Apostle Paul also speaks to the importance of focus in Philippians 3:13-14 : "Brothers, I do not consider myself to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus." Paul emphasizes the need to focus on the future promises of God rather than past failures or successes.

Readiness

Readiness in the Bible is the state of being prepared to act according to God's will, whether in response to His call or in anticipation of His return. It involves spiritual vigilance, moral integrity, and a heart attuned to the leading of the Holy Spirit.

Jesus frequently taught about readiness, particularly in the context of His second coming. In Matthew 24:44 , He warns, "For this reason, you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour you do not expect." This call to readiness is a reminder for believers to live in a state of constant spiritual preparedness, maintaining a lifestyle that reflects the values of the Kingdom of God.

The parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25:1-13 further illustrates the concept of readiness. Five of the virgins were wise and took oil for their lamps, while the other five were foolish and did not. When the bridegroom arrived, only the prepared virgins were able to join the wedding feast. This parable highlights the necessity of being spiritually prepared for Christ's return, as the opportunity to enter the Kingdom can come unexpectedly.

In Ephesians 6:13-17 , Paul describes the armor of God, which equips believers for spiritual readiness. He writes, "Therefore take up the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you will be able to stand your ground, and having done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness arrayed, and with your feet fitted with the readiness of the gospel of peace." This passage emphasizes the importance of being spiritually equipped and ready to face the challenges and temptations of the world.

Focus and readiness are intertwined in the life of a believer, as maintaining a clear focus on God and His purposes naturally leads to a state of readiness to act according to His will. Both are essential for living a life that honors God and fulfills His calling.