We have a 3 year old Golden Retriever as our pet, and over the years we have worked on training him to listen to our commands and walk properly along side us. One of the books I read on training described that the key to having the dog listen and do what you expect is to keep their attention on you, their master. When their attention is drawn away from you, they will start off on their own agenda, chasing a squirrel, or following a scent.

I am not equating people to pets, but in a similar way, what we put our attention on affects what we do in life. In 1 Chronicles 16 David is telling the people of Israel how to behave, praise, and follow God, and he writes in verse 11, “Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.”

We need to be regularly turning our attention to God, his word, the bible, prayer, and worship, so that our attention is not drawn away toward things that take us away from God’s will.

Dear Lord, your lessons and instruction are available through your word in the Bible for all of to lead the life you desire. We need only keep our attention on you and your teaching, and you will guide us. Help us do just that. In Jesus’ name. Amen.