1 Timothy 2:4-5 (MSG)
He wants not only us but everyone saved, you know, everyone to get to know the truth we’ve learned: that there’s one God and only one, and one Priest-Mediator between God and us—Jesus, who offered himself in exchange for everyone held captive by sin, to set them all free.
“After examining my eye, the doctor diagnosed me with a floater… She instructed me not to focus my gaze on the floater but to look beyond the shadow. If I were to focus on the floater, the nerve impulses would be directed toward it — further distorting my vision. The brain is wired to strengthen what we focus on. As I pondered this, I discovered a spiritual truth. If I focus my thoughts on murmuring and complaining about the negative things in my life, I will see only the negative. But if I choose to turn my gaze and focus on Jesus through prayer, praise, and scripture, my vision will clear. I will be able to see beyond my circumstances to God’s greatness and goodness.” [Joanie Shawhan (Wisconsin), The Upper Room Daily Devotional, 8.23.18]
1. What do we tend to focus on when we consider the doctrine of hell? To whom does Scripture point us to?
2. What does 1 Timothy say about God’s desire for all people? How can we make this our focus?
Father, change our focus from “what and where” to “who and how.” May we gaze upon you, lovingly, adoringly, that our hearts would be filled with overflowing praise.
Let’s worship with Lion and the Lamb (click here) by Leeland.
– AK
