Genesis 32:24 – “So Jacob was left alone.  Then a man wrestled with him until daybreak.”

As I read, prayed, and meditated on the Word of God today, the thought of focus and commitment filled my thoughts.   We cultivate harvests through our focus, commitment, and follow-through.

When Jacob was preparing to face Esau in Genesis 32, he separated his family and possessions from himself.  He was fearful and trying to devise an escape plan.   In verse 24, we read, “So Jacob was left alone.”  

That is a horrible place where we are unable to escape our inner thoughts and fears.  It is also a wonderful place because there we must face God, and if we are to have any hope of victory, we must wrestle with God’s purpose, settling in our hearts, our focus, and commitment.   Jacob wrestled with God all night long. (Type of Intercession).  He was changed forever that night!

When Jacob’s daughter had been raped, two of his sons took the matter into their own hands, forcing Jacob to relocate.  He went to Bethel (House of God).   He went to the place symbolic of God’s presence.  He instructed his family to rid themselves of all their idols and to change their clothes.  Jacob opened the door to trouble by burying the idols and articles rather than burning them.

Focus guides us and helps us commit and follow through on our purpose. Focus enables us to see our objective and to be keenly aware of the pitfalls and hindrances.

In Athens, Paul was stirred because of the idolatry.  His focus on his mission and commitment launched him into action.  Are we grieved in our spirits over the condition of those around us?  Does the evil of this world trouble us, or are we able to live unaffected by it?  Does it keep us awake, or does it have little impact?

In Acts 20:24, Paul focused on his commission and God’s purposes. He was unconcerned about ease or safety. He was focused on the assignment to share Jesus with all. In verse 35, he explained the focus of his life: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

How much is our soul worth?  That’s how much every soul is worth.  I’m disturbed by my too-frequent ability to live an unaffected life while the world around me is ravaged by sin.   If I truly love like Jesus, I will be unable to live an unaffected life.  Life is not about ease.  Life here is secondary to eternity! My focus will determine my destiny and destination.

LORD, help us to focus and make a full commitment to you!