“In Paul’s teaching and his example, we will learn the power of focus. We already know the power of focus — in principle. We even use a very common idiomatic expression for it: ‘Is the glass half full or half empty?’ . . . The difference is not the glass or the water in it. It’s how we see it. We evaluate according to the perspective we bring to it.”- Chip Ingram
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.”- Philippians 1:3-5 (NIV)
In Chapter 1 (“The Power of Focus”) of I Choose Joy, Chip Ingram acknowledges that all of us go through trials and difficult seasons. Sometimes we find these trials and seasons very painful and challenging. But even in these difficult circumstances, Scripture tells us to choose joy. Above all, Chip adds, Jesus promised we could have joy. Whether things are easy or we’re facing the most challenging time of our lives.
So, Pastor Ingram asks, how is that possible? Because choosing joy in the midst of adversity goes against all our instincts. For it’s easy to look inward when things go south, to fall into self-pity. And before long, our life spirals downward.
As a result, Chip counsels:
“Even when our livers are filled with good things, many of us have a tendency to focus on whatever is still lacking or needs to be fixed. Other people . . . realize that everyone’s life has a degree of emptiness. . . . But instead of letting these challenges define them, they see the blessings they’ve already been given. And because that’s their focus, they are empowered to remember God’s goodness and sovereignty even in life’s most challenging situations. Perspective, or focus, is one of the keys to joy.”
Today’s question: What Bible verses help you move beyond accepting the power of focus only in principle? Please share.’
Coming Monday: the September Short Meditation, “Made to walk with God”
Tomorrow’s blog: “The Divine Equation: C + P = E”