Focus

Romans 8 is a Bible verse we all know all too well.  In my case, I usually stopped at verse 1 where it says "There is therefore now no condemnation to those that are in Christ Jesus.  That walks not after the flesh but after the Spirit."  The question is how do I walk after the flesh or after the Spirit.  Verse 5-8 gives us a clear answer and quite a shocking one as well.  It speaks of our minds and what it is focused on.  Think of the things we know in this world... our day to day lives... see, if you are focused on that stress, anxiety, pressure, frustration and a feeling of hopelessness is soon to get a grip on your throat.  What you want to do or need to do the next day isn't wrong... but meditating on these things will make you lose focus.  We read in the gospels how Jesus commanded Peter to come to him... by walking on the water.  Now while Peter's focus was on Jesus he walked on water as if on solid ground.  But as soon as he saw the storm around him he sank.  Keeping our thoughts set on what is above is a key to a stress free and frustration free life.  In fact...in Romans 8 verse 7 says that having a mind set on fleshly things is declaring war against God!  trust in and rely on God and He will fill every need...
  “If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.” Colossians 3:1–4