Jeremiah 12:1 – “Lord, you have always been fair whenever I have complained to you.  However, I would like to speak with you about the disposition of justice.   Why are wicked people successful?   Why do all dishonest people have such easy lives?”

As I read, prayed, and meditated on the Word of God today, several realities of life 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 am 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. Do not 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 can make standalone, but they are inseparable in context.   Never reward laziness, and do not 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 will not let go, especially if we do not let go.  Focus is the key! That is why Paul frequently encouraged and commanded to fill the consciousness with God!   What we fill our hearts and minds with defines who we become. Do not Compare and Despair!

Have a fantastic day and you resist the temptation to Compare and Despair!