No Time for Self-focus

When we are met with adversities in this life, let us be intentional in not thinking the worst or indulging in self-pity. Whatever our situation, if we are doers of His (God’s) word, we have a guide to direct our way; whatever our perplexity we have a sure Counselor; whatever our sorrow, bereavement or loneliness, we have a sympathizing Friend” (Ellen G. White, Ministry of Healing, p. 458). Jesus became one like us, a human being, so that He can identify with us in our infirmities. He will not allow circumstances to come into a life surrendered to Him for which He will not provide support or a remedy. 

We need a constant reminder that our Father in Heaven loved us so much that He allowed His only begotten Son to die the most cruel of deaths for our sake. We also need the spirit of Christ, an other-centered way of thinking and being, that made him envision the joy of seeing sons and daughters redeemed rather than focusing on the cruel cross He was to bear for our sins. Having the mind of Christ, we can then minister to others even though we may be experiencing sorrow or other troubles. However, we must keep our focus on Jesus, His wonderful attributes and His “exceeding great precious promises” (2 Peter 1:4). 

We are called to fight the good fight of faith and lay hold on eternal life (1 Timothy 6:12). This is a daily fight. Through Christ we can overcome one of the greatest challenges: self-focus. Jesus can change the current of our thoughts so that regardless of our circumstances, our greatest desire is to bring glory to Him, to reflect His character. Jesus says, in the world [we] shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). He wants us to dwell more on the blessings we receive than on the trials that we face, lest our spirit becomes crushed and we give up our faith.

With all our hearts, let us seek Jesus through the study of the word. Let us seek His presence as well as His help with our trials, that His promises may flood our souls. Let us live with an anticipation of the day when Jesus “shall lead [us] unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from [our] eyes” (Revelation 7:17). “There shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away” (Revelation 21:4).