Into Focus

What's New
Check out the latest additions and updates to Intense Living.com.

Thought Provokers
Inspirational and motivational stories - great for opening a meeting or just to lift your spirit.
Subscribe by E-mail

The Book of Taunt
Thousands of quotes and sayings, organized by topic.
Subscribe by E-mail

Sharpen Your Sword
Bible Study notes and information to help build your Christian faith.

The Ticket to Heaven
Simple, but powerful origami-like paper fold illustrating God's love.

Media Mash
An assortment of audio, picture and video clips.

Word With You
Bible verses delivered via e-mail and RSS.
Subscribe by Email

Eye Openers
Interesting news and information - interesting to me anyway.
Subscribe by Email

Creation and Evolution
Information about the ongoing debate between the theories of Evolution and Intelligent Design.

Into Focus

John 12:32
Matthew 4:1-10-- when Christ was tempted, His focus was tested. Satan failed because Christ knew what God wanted Him to do-- God's plan and purpose, God's way.
John 5:1-13; 19-- Jesus was focused on what God's purpose was He didn't add to what God said. He adjusted His life to what God wanted.
Luke 8:40-48-- Crowds didn't upset His focus.
Are we distracted? They we always be close by. We often elevate distractions above the Lordship of Christ.
Circumstances (Matthew 14:28-31)-- It's our perspective that distracts us.
Relationships (Luke 9:46-48)-- Jealousy among brothers distracts us from our mission of lifting up Christ.
Religion (Luke 13:14)-- Making ceremonies more important than God's purpose.
Thorns and Limps (2 Corinthians 12:7-9; Genesis 32:31)-- God uses something meant for evil to keep us focused. They can be reminders of God's power and our own shortcomings.
Remaining focused through conflict (Philippians 4:2-8)
- Rejoice-- see things from God's perspective.
- Let your gentleness be obvious.
- Don't be anxious-- keep eternity in perspective.
- Pray-- there's no substitute for it.
- Refocus-- you see what you look for.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008 –