The Power to Focus:
Be the Director – Part 1

Scripture Reading:  Romans 8:1-8

Key Verse:  Romans 8:5

Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.

A director has the final say in a play or in the selection of songs in an orchestra.  The director points his followers in the direction that seems appropriate for them.  They may listen to the opinions of others, but they are not bound by those opinions.  Some directors may not be strong enough to go against the opinion of a naysayer, but the director has been given the power of final decisions.

            In our scripture in Romans, the Apostle Paul tells us to be the director of our thoughts.  We are to have our minds set on the things of the Spirit.  The Greek word Paul uses expresses the idea of directing your thoughts.  God comes into our lives when we ask Jesus to forgive our sins.  His Holy Spirit living in us reminds us to choose the things of God and godliness.  Our flesh still exists and expresses its opinion on the issues we face.  The evil one joins the party and forces his opinion on us as well.

            We are called upon to be the director of our thoughts.  Others will express their opinions, but we must be strong directors.  We must direct our thoughts to follow the Spirit’s leadings.  The apostle reminds us that the mind of a sinful man will not fight the opinions of the flesh and the devil; that person will go with the natural desires.  We’ve been given the power to focus and we must!  Focus on the eternal!

Father, I will direct my thoughts today; they will not take me where they wish.  Thank you for my power in you.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.