Focus

In the biblical context, focus refers to the intentional and unwavering attention directed towards God, His Word, and His purposes. The Scriptures emphasize the importance of maintaining a clear and steadfast focus on spiritual matters, often contrasting it with the distractions and temptations of the world.

One of the most illustrative passages on focus is found in Hebrews 12:1-2 : "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." This passage encourages believers to focus on Jesus Christ as the ultimate example and source of strength in their spiritual journey.

The Apostle Paul also speaks to the importance of focus in Philippians 3:13-14 : "Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have laid hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus." Here, Paul emphasizes the need to concentrate on the future promises of God, setting aside past distractions and failures.

Discipline

Discipline in the Bible is often associated with self-control, correction, and training in righteousness. It is a vital aspect of the Christian life, enabling believers to grow in holiness and align their lives with God's will.

Proverbs 12:1 states, "Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid." This verse highlights the value of discipline as a means to gain wisdom and understanding. Discipline is not merely punitive but is intended to guide and instruct believers in the ways of righteousness.

The New Testament further elaborates on the concept of discipline in Hebrews 12:5-11 : "And you have forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons: 'My son, do not take lightly the discipline of the Lord, and do not lose heart when He rebukes you. For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises every son He receives.' Endure suffering as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you do not experience discipline like everyone else, then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. Furthermore, we have all had earthly fathers who disciplined us, and we respected them. Should we not much more submit to the Father of spirits and live? They disciplined us for a short time as they thought best, but God disciplines us for our good, so that we may share in His holiness. No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields a harvest of righteousness and peace to those who have been trained by it." This passage underscores the loving and purposeful nature of God's discipline, which is designed to produce spiritual maturity and holiness in His children.

In 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 , Paul uses the metaphor of an athlete to describe the disciplined life of a believer: "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to take the prize. Everyone who competes in the games trains with strict discipline. They do it for a crown that is perishable, but we do it for a crown that is imperishable. Therefore I do not run aimlessly; I do not fight like I am beating the air. No, I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified." Paul emphasizes the need for self-discipline in the pursuit of eternal rewards, urging believers to exercise control over their desires and actions.

In summary, focus and discipline are integral components of the Christian life, enabling believers to remain steadfast in their faith and grow in their relationship with God. Through focus, believers are encouraged to fix their eyes on Jesus and His promises, while discipline serves as a means of spiritual growth and alignment with God's will.