Focus by definition refers to:
• Centre of interest or activity
• Eyes adapting to the prevailing level of light and become able to see clearly

When we consider eternal it draws to mind that which is:
• Lasting or existing forever
• That which is without end or beginning
• unchanging

It is therefore important to understand that there is a relationship between what we focus on and how we view our lives and our experiences. This undoubtedly affects our interest and activity.

Recognising that the things that we focus on grow in size and importance is essential to our ability to cope with what faces us. No wonder the scriptures tell us to set our affections (desires, expectations, and hopes) on things above.

It is commonly stated that a person must have purpose, goal or direction for their life. Without this focus they wonder aimlessly through life often under achieving, feeling small or inadequate.

The bible declares that without a vision the people perish (fall away). King David recognises the need to have God always in view and to look to him. He declares “I will look to the hill from whence cometh my help, my help cometh from the Lord”. Psalm 121

Isaiah 26 says God will keep in perfect peace the mind that is stayed on him. Having fasted and prayed about the theme for convention 2013, I knew that a word from the Lord was needed. I began to notice the many messages and encouragements by various organisations, groups and individuals on what we should be focussed on.

Health, money, insurance, economy, poverty and disasters etc. are some of the matters that have our attention. All these prevent or distract focus on our eternal destiny.

Overwhelmingly I became aware of Christians focus on material and temporal things. God showed me an increasing concern on securing of a position in this life than their eternal purpose and destiny. It appears that the world is providing the focus for the church. But we are warned to be aware lest the world spoil us after the philosophies and teachings of men and not after Christ.

God showed me that the church was achieving material things but the attention to eternal things is diminishing. We are encouraged in St Matthew to seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all other things will be added unto us.

Only God is without end or beginning only he exists for ever and is unchanging. Repeatedly God showed me the need for his people to remember the gift of eternal life, a new body, new heaven, new earth where in dwelleth righteousness.

Our focus is wrong therefore we have strayed off course. The spirit of the Lord said to me tell my people to Focus on Eternal Things.

Bishop A E Copeland – Diocesan Bishop of Bibleway UK

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