Jeremiah 12:1 – “Righteous are You, O Lord, that I would plead my case with You; Indeed, I would discuss matters of justice with You: Why has the way of the wicked prospered? Why are all those who deal in treachery at ease?”

As I read, prayed, and meditated on the Word of God today, several life realities flooded my mind.

It is easy to fall into the pit of despair when we struggle and look around at those who are making no attempt to do right, have ease, and prosper. That involves a shift in focus from God to self.   Even Jeremiah fell prey to that trap.

(Jeremiah 12:1).  My paraphrase: “Hey God, what’s up with this? People are pursuing selfishness, living wickedly, and all is rosy. I’m serving you, and there is no end to my problems. WHY?”

God answered him in (v 5). “Son, you are focused wrong. If this (foot soldiers, little foxes, minor issues) is defeating you, how will you face the big stuff?”   The answer was: “Focus on God, not man. Don’t Compare and Despair!”

In Jeremiah 17:7-10, we have the same phraseology as Psalm 1. Those who focus on God and live faithfully, obedient lives anchored in God and His truth, flourish.  No matter what is happening around them and even to them, inside they are strong, confident, and provided for.  God is IN them, living through them, and His life produces the fruit of life!

Paul addressed that in 2 Thessalonians 3:10-15.   In (vv 10 & 13), we have declarations we make standalone but are inseparable in context.  Never reward laziness, and don’t let the pervasiveness of entitled, lazy living around you cause you to grow weary of doing what is right. Remember Psalm 1, Psalm 23, Psalm 91, and Jeremiah 17.

Hold the reality of Galatians 6:9 near as a reminder that the devil cannot win unless we quit. God won’t let go, especially if we don’t let go.

Focus is the key!  That’s why Paul frequently encouraged and commanded us to fill our consciousness with God!  What we fill our hearts and minds with defines who we become. Don’t Compare and Despair!

“Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way.”    Keep looking up; our help is coming from heaven!