Stay Focused


By now it might be obvious that I love photography. If not... surprise!

There are some key functions that must be mastered if you want to be a good photographer. Understanding ISO, aperture, shutter speed, white balance and other settings are key, but if you have all that knowledge and your pictures still turn out blurry then there's a fundamental issue that must be dealt with -- FOCUS!

I remember shooting portraits once and it was 10 minutes before realizing my lens was set to manual focus rather than auto. It was just clear enough that I could not tell from the back of the camera, but oh was there a huge difference on my computer screen. Almost in focus does not cut it in photography. Focus is essential.

If we want to live a life pleasing to the Lord, then we must also realize the importance of focus. Paul wrote: If 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. (Colossians 3:1-2)

I've heard it said that you can be so heavenly minded that you're no earthly good, but I would counter that my saying you are no earthly good if your mind (focus) is not on heavenly things. We can get so wrapped up in material needs (and wants) that we forget the more important spiritual things.

Jesus said, "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things (personal needs) will be added to you." (Matthew 6:33)

How important is our focused attention on God's kingdom? The Psalmist wrote that God Himself is looking/searching for those who are focused on (seeking) Him.

The Lord looks down from heaven on the children of man, to see if there are any who understand, who seek after God. (Psalm 14:2)

As you seek after and focus on God, you will find the answers you are looking for. Jesus assured us... "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you." (Matthew 7:7)

So, stay focused on the Lord and see what develops.

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