Fixed on the Author and Finisher
fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith (Hebrews 12:2).
This world constantly demands our attention and it is incredibly easy to become "spiritually nearsighted." We focus on the immediate obstacles such as sickness, deadlines, chores, or the unexpected storms and lose sight of the horizon. However, the writer of Hebrews offers a better way.
Fix your eyes on the Author and Finisher of your faith.
To "fix our eyes" implies more than a casual glance. It describes a deliberate turning away from everything else to gaze intensely at one thing. It is the steady focus of a runner looking toward the finish line, refusing to be sidelined by the pain and fatigue.
Benefits of a Christ-Centered Gaze
When we consciously shift our focus from our circumstances to Christ, several things begin to change in our life:
Renewed Perspective on Trials: When we look at a mountain from its base, it seems impassable. When we look at it from the sky, it’s just part of the landscape. Fixing our eyes on Jesus places our problems in the context of His sovereignty.
Since…you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Colossians 3.1-4
Endurance Against Weariness: Hebrews 12:3 tells us to "consider him... so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." We draw our energy from His finished work rather than our own fading strength.
So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
“All who rage against you
will surely be ashamed and disgraced;
those who oppose you
will be as nothing and perish.
Though you search for your enemies,
you will not find them.
Those who wage war against you
will be as nothing at all.
For I am the Lord your God
who takes hold of your right hand
and says to you, Do not fear;
I will help you. Isaiah 41.10-13
Transformation through Reflection: We naturally become like what we admire. As we dwell on His character—His patience, His humility, and His love—those traits begin to take root in our own lives.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Phil.4.4-7
Steadfast Peace: In the middle of a storm, Peter was able to walk on water as long as he was looking at Jesus. The moment he focused on the wind and waves, he began to sink. Peace isn't the absence of the storm; it is the presence of Christ in the storm.
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3.15-17
Reflect & Act
Life also has a way of paralyzing us, but we can act after reflecting on the truths of God’s comforting words. Take a moment today to identify what has been "cluttering" your vision. Is it a worry about tomorrow? A frustration from yesterday? Enemies like those mentioned in the Isaiah passage above?
Acknowledge the Distraction: Don't ignore the "waves," but recognize they aren't the whole story. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41.10
Redirect your Gaze: Literally take a deep breath and pray, "Lord, I am looking to You right now." Call on Christ! He answers. “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” Jeremiah 33.3
Remember His Character: Remind yourself of one specific attribute of Jesus—His faithfulness, His protection, or His power. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13.8
Remember the hymn:
Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.
There is a great reason to have hope in Christ today!
Jesus came to "set the captives free," by the Truth.
Do you know Jesus yet?
Pray and ask Him to deliver you! He will.
email: mike@trainandtell.org
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