Since all this is true, we ought to pay much closer attention than ever to the truths that we have heard, lest in any way we drift past [them] and slip away. (Hebrews 2:1, Amplified)
During a recent round of golf, I said to one of my playing partners, “The hardest thing for me is paying attention for all 18 holes.” I went on to explain how after an eight-year hiatus from playing serious golf, I have to practice paying attention. This is especially true as I tiptoe back into competition on the Legends Tour.
I’m guessing you might struggle paying attention throughout your rounds too. It’s OK if your conversations and thoughts wander during a four-hour round of golf if you have cultivated the skill to return your attention back to each shot before you hit again. This means allowing time to get your yardage, evaluate wind and elevation, and pick your target. A good indication that you have lost your attention is if you grab a club out of your bag and carelessly swing away without any preparation.
I want to practice prosecho. I want to take heed and adhere myself to Jesus.Consistently paying attention to the spiritual truths that first led us to Jesus is even more challenging. Constant distractions like technology, fitness and diet plans, apparel trends, social justice evils, daily obligations with work and family, and [fill in the blank], can lead us drifting past what our hearts and souls need most: time with Jesus and standing firm in his promises of love, forgiveness, and hope.
The Greek word Paul uses in our passage today for attention is prosecho. It means to pay attention, to hold the mind towards, be cautious about, apply oneself to, adhere to, take heed.
Falling into spiritual complacency is easy. Remembering that Jesus offered himself to cleanse us from our sins and guilt, and now he sits at the right hand of God (Hebrews 1:3), is much harder.
Paying closer attention to the truths that first brought us to Jesus begins with our own unique spiritual preparation (like a pre-shot routine). For example, one thing I have started to build into my morning routine is spending 10 to 20 minutes being still (no reading, no phone, no journaling) in my blue recliner that looks out into my backyard. This helps me settle my mind and opens my heart to the presence of God. When I am able to protect this time, I experience more shalom throughout the day, regardless of what circumstances come my way.
Practicing paying attention also requires intentionality. I don’t want the truths that I have learned about Jesus to drift past me or slip away. I want to practice prosecho. I want to hold my mind towards him. I want to be cautious about him. I want to apply myself to God’s Word. I want to take heed and adhere myself to Jesus.
Will you join me today and practice paying attention to Jesus?
—
Tracy Hanson
August 16, 2018
Copyright 2018 Links Players International
The Links Daily Devotional appears Monday-Friday at www.linksplayers.com.