In today’s world, distractions are endless and time feels fleeting. And so, attention has become our most valuable asset–– currency, if you will. It shapes not only our daily lives but also our worldview and worship. Catherine Price aptly captures this reality with her assertion,
“Our lives are what we pay attention to.”
As Christians, this insight challenges us to consider carefully where we aim our focus. Paying attention isn’t at all passive; it’s an active choice that reveals our priorities, guides our decisions, and shapes our spiritual walk.
The Importance of Attention
Attention goes beyond mental focus; it mirrors our deepest values and priorities. What we choose to focus on reveals much about what we hold dear.
For instance, a person who devotes significant time and energy to their career may prioritize professional success, while another who focuses on family life might value relationships above all else. This concept holds for our so-called “spiritual lives” as well. The way we allocate our attention can either draw us closer to God or lead us away from Him.
As someone with ADHD, I’ve experienced firsthand the trade-offs associated with attention. Our attention is a finite resource. Choosing to focus on one thing invariably means neglecting others. This reality compels us to make conscious decisions about where we direct our mental and emotional energy.
In this light, attention becomes a critical aspect of our spiritual discipline. By intentionally focusing on following the Lord, we can transform our motivations, schedules, habits, and ultimately, our character.
Biblical Foundations
Scripture highlights the critical need to direct our focus toward God. In Psalm 1:2, we read about the righteous person who delights in the law of the Lord and meditates on it day and night. This continuous meditation reflects a life centered on God’s word. Similarly, Jesus instructs His followers in Matthew 6:33 to “seek first His kingdom and His righteousness,” emphasizing the priority of focusing on God’s kingdom above all else.
We find inspiring examples in Scripture of individuals who maintained an unwavering focus on God. Daniel’s practice of praying three times a day (Daniel 6:10) demonstrates a disciplined focus on God amidst the pressures of a demanding political career.
Paul’s relentless pursuit of knowing Christ and making Him known (Philippians 3:10-14) exemplifies a life centered on the mission of God. These examples challenge us to consider where our own attention lies and how it aligns with our spiritual goals.
Attention in Everyday Life
The concept of attention extends beyond our spiritual practices to encompass every single aspect of our lives. Our daily decisions and actions are profoundly influenced by what we focus on. Prioritizing time with family over work can strengthen relationships and foster a nurturing home environment. Conversely, an excessive focus on career advancement might lead to neglecting personal health or meaningful relationships.
For Christians, directing our attention toward God means integrating our faith into each aspect of our lives. It involves recognizing that our work, leisure, relationships, and even our struggles are arenas where we can experience and reflect God’s presence. When we focus on God, we begin to see our daily tasks and interactions as opportunities for worship and service.
Conclusion
In conclusion, attention is a powerful currency that shapes our lives in countless ways. For Christians, it is an essential aspect of our spiritual discipline, reflecting our values and priorities.
By intentionally directing our focus toward God, we align our lives with His purposes and experience transformation in our motivations, habits, and character. The Bible provides us with an array of teachings and examples that highlight the importance of maintaining a Godward focus.
As we navigate the distractions and demands of modern life, let us remember the wisdom of Catherine Price and the biblical mandate to fix our eyes on Jesus. By doing so, we not only deepen our relationship with God but also gain clarity and purpose in every aspect of our lives. Let us strive to make God the primary focus of our attention, allowing His presence to shape and guide us in all that we do.
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