Where is my focus?

You suffered…, because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions. – v. 34

EARLY in September 2011, a raging wildfire destroyed 600 homes in and around the city of Bastrop in central Texas. A few weeks later an article in the Austin AmericanStatesman newspaper carried this headline: “People who lost the most, focus on what wasn’t lost.” The article described the community’s outpouring of generosity and the realization of those who received help that neighbors, friends, and community were worth far more than anything they lost.

The writer of Hebrews reminded first-century followers of Jesus to recall how they had bravely endured persecution early in their life of faith. They stood their ground in the face of insults and oppression, standing side by side with other believers (HEB. 10:32-33). “You suffered along with those in prison and joy fully accepted the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions” (V. 34). Their focus was not on what they had lost but on eternal things that could not be taken from them.

Jesus told His followers, “Where your treasure is, there your hearth will be also” (MATT. 6:21). As we focus on the Lord and all that we have in Him, even our most precious possessions can be held lightly. — DAVID MCCASLAND Lord, open our eyes to see You and to embrace what is most important each day. Where is your focus today?

©2017 ODB Ministries, 3000, Kraft Ave., SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49555-0001, USA. Used by permission. For this and other materials contact ODB Ministries at 322 P. Guevarra, San Juan City (Phils.); Tel.: 722-2010.