Embracing the Integrated Life
In today’s chaotic world, it’s easy to feel like we’re being pulled in multiple directions. Demands from work and home can leave us feeling fragmented and uncertain about how to prioritize our lives. But what if we could find a way to live a more integrated life, one that is centered and focused?
A Sense of Wholeness
Jean Fleming, a Quaker teacher, refers to this kind of life as “the focused life.” Thomas Kelly describes it as being “organized by a single, mastering Life within us,” while E. Stanley Jones calls it a “sense of wholeness.” It’s a life where all the disparate parts come together to form a cohesive whole.
Jesus: A Model of Purpose
Even Jesus, who lived in a seemingly simpler time, faced similar pressures. He had to train a group of followers who often struggled to understand His message, all while dealing with the demands of His ministry. Yet, He was able to confidently declare, “I have finished the work You gave me to do.” What was His secret? He knew Himself, His goals, and His focus. He walked purposefully into each day, never losing sight of His priorities.
Centering Ourselves in God
So how can we, like Jesus, live a life of purpose and focus? The key is to center ourselves in God. When we do, we can arrange all the priorities of life around that center. We can learn to be aware of God’s presence in the midst of our busy schedules, as well as in the quiet moments of reflection.
A Prayer for Focus
Father, help me carefully center myself in You and thus arrange all the priorities of life around that center. Help me be aware of You in the rushing whirlwind of schedule as well as in the softness of a baby’s cheek.
The Power of Undistracted Prayer
Is your prayer time undistracted? Do you find yourself constantly checking your phone or worrying about the tasks ahead? Learning to pray without distraction can be a powerful way to center ourselves in God and find focus in our lives.
Discovering Jesus
If you’re interested in learning more about knowing Jesus and living a life of purpose and focus, explore our resources on thoughtsaboutgod.com. Subscribe to our email newsletter to stay up-to-date on our latest articles and reflections.
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