Composites

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. (James 1:5-8 ESV). Over the years I have been responsible for putting together financial packages for churches and businesses in preparation for loan applications. In every case it was absolutely essential to put together several years of comparative numbers dealing with indicators of the health and growth of the organization. These “composites” are page after page of numbers that become indicators of trends within the operation of the church or business. One indicator may be too high or another too low, which prompts the loan officers to investigate the reason and ask for further explanation as to how the organization has taken steps to find a solution. While representing them focus becomes the most challenging task. Remembering those days and reading our text for today began my thinking for this morning’s devotional. Focus is essential to any success. Athletes must stay focused to win a game. Students must concentrate on their studies to progress in their chosen field. Workers doing potentially dangerous tasks must not be distracted. Focus and concentration is important in Christianity. Jesus put it this way. "If your hand or your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it from you; it is better for you to enter life crippled or lame, than to have two hands or two feet and be cast into the eternal fire." (cf. Matthew 18:8) Psalm 119:113 adds, "I hate those who are double-minded, but I love your law." Today’s reading is even more pointed. A double-minded person has no sure foundation in life. Such a person "... is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind." (verse 6) The double-minded person is "unstable in all his ways" (verse 7). The answer is so simple: Focus on the life God has secured for you in the sacrifice of Christ. As with anything we study there are two parts to a solution. First, find the problem. That takes focus. Then we must formulate a plan and take action toward the implementation of that plan. When you find yourself enmeshed in a destructive habit the first essential is accomplished. You’ve discovered it. Now it remains for you to change it, perhaps eliminating it altogether. I know this is where the excuse of “I’m not strong enough” is usually offered. There is truth in that, however no validity. God knows we aren’t strong enough. That’s why he offers us the strength. Ask for it. His promise is to give it!