Keeping Your Eyes on Jesus

Good morning, Church! Today, I want to talk about something that’s both simple and profound: keeping our eyes on Jesus. In a world full of distractions, challenges, and chaos, the question is: where are you looking? Because where your eyes are fixed, your heart will follow.

The Power of Focus

The Bible tells us in Hebrews 12:1-2:"Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him, he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."

Life is a race. And like any race, where you focus your eyes can make the difference between finishing strong and stumbling along the way. Fixing your eyes on Jesus doesn’t mean ignoring life’s problems—it means trusting Him to guide you through them.

Peter Walking on Water: A Lesson in Focus

Let’s look at a familiar story in Matthew 14:28-31.

When Peter saw Jesus walking on the water, he said, "Lord, if it’s you, tell me to come to you on the water."

And Jesus said, “Come.” So Peter stepped out of the boat and began walking toward Jesus. But something happened.

Verse 30 says:"But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’"

Peter’s problem wasn’t the wind or the waves—it was where his focus shifted. As long as his eyes were on Jesus, he did the impossible. The moment he focused on the storm, fear took over, and he began to sink.

The lesson is clear: when we focus on Jesus, we can rise above the storms of life. But when we focus on the problems around us, we sink into fear, doubt, and despair.

Distractions That Pull Us Away

The enemy loves to distract us because he knows that distraction leads to destruction. Here are some common distractions that pull our eyes off Jesus:

1. Worry and Fear: We get so focused on the “what-ifs” that we forget the One who holds the future.

   
   

2. Success and Comfort: Even blessings can become distractions when we make them the goal instead of Jesus.

   
   

3. Other People: Sometimes, we compare ourselves to others, trying to measure up or win approval, instead of seeking God’s approval.

   
   

4. Sin: Sin pulls our hearts and minds away from God, making it harder to see Him clearly.

The devil doesn’t need you to reject Jesus outright; he just needs you to look away long enough to lose your footing.

Why Keep Your Eyes on Jesus?

He is Our Strength: In Philippians 4:13, Paul writes:"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."When your eyes are on Jesus, you’re reminded that your strength comes from Him, not your own abilities.

He is Our Peace: In John 14:27, Jesus said: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."When the world is chaotic, keeping your eyes on Jesus brings a peace that doesn’t make sense but anchors your soul.

He is Our Guide: Psalm 119:105 says: "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."When you focus on Jesus, He lights the way, guiding your steps even in the darkest times.

He is Our Goal: Ultimately, Jesus isn’t just the way to the finish line—He is the finish line. In everything we do, we should strive to bring Him glory.

Practical Steps to Keep Your Eyes on Jesus

1. Start Your Day with Him: Before you check your phone or dive into your to-do list, spend time in prayer and Scripture.

   
   

2. Guard Your Mind: Be intentional about what you allow into your mind. What are you watching, reading, and listening to?

   
   

3. Stay Connected to Community: Surround yourself with people who encourage you to keep your eyes on Jesus.

   
   

4. Pray Constantly: Talk to Jesus throughout the day. He’s not just a Savior; He’s a friend who’s always with you.

   
   

5. Remember the Cross: When life gets hard, remember what Jesus has already done for you. The cross is a constant reminder of His love and faithfulness.

   
   

Eyes Fixed, Faith Strong

Church, keeping your eyes on Jesus isn’t just about survival—it’s about thriving in the midst of life’s storms. It’s about finding joy in the journey and hope in the hardest moments.

When your eyes are on Jesus:

• The storm becomes smaller.

• The fear fades away.

• The impossible becomes possible.

  
  

Closing Encouragement

Let me leave you with this: Imagine a child learning to walk. They stumble, they fall, but when their eyes lock onto their parent, they’re encouraged to keep going. That’s us with Jesus. We may stumble, but as long as our eyes are on Him, we’ll keep moving forward.

Fix your eyes on Jesus, Church. Let Him lead, let Him strengthen, and let Him be your peace.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, Thank You for being the author and finisher of our faith. Help us to keep our eyes on Jesus in every season of life. When storms rise, let us focus on You, trusting in Your strength and provision. Teach us to lay aside distractions and run the race with perseverance. Lord, let us be a people who shine Your light, not because we are perfect, but because our focus is fixed on the Perfect One. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.