This week we have been talking about anxiety that’s camouflaged as a distraction. Once we recognize what is distracting us, it's crucial to intentionally look away to (fix our gaze) on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of our faith. Martha's way of being while questioning Jesus serves as a vivid illustration of the importance of redirecting our focus.

Martha, known for her hospitality, found herself ensnared in the details of serving, distracting her from the presence of Jesus and hiding her anxiety. The same happens to us.

To fix our gaze on Jesus means deliberately turning away from these distractions. It involves a conscious effort to shift our attention from the clamor of the immediate to the quiet assurance found in Him.

For example, if you're distracted by much church work ...

1. Prayerfully discern why you're so involved in the work.

2. Explore if it's a cover for anxiety.

3. If it is, dig deeper to see what you're anxious about (e.g., fear you won't look like a good leader or God isn't pleased with you or you won't be accepted by others)

4. "Look away" from it to Jesus by a) taking the anxiety to him (1 Peter 5:7), and b) adjusting your level of involvement.

Note: It's not about ignoring responsibilities or dropping out of life. That's an overcorrection.

Rather, it's about using church work, for example, to honor God and your local church instead of being a slave to church work because of hidden anxiety.

This may not be easy to do, and the hidden anxiety may not show itself immediately. So stay with it, and keep looking. More importantly, keep asking God to shine his light so you'll be aware of what's happening in your heart.

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Prayer

Heavenly Father, in the midst of the clamor around me, help me to look away from all that distracts and fix my gaze on Your Son, Jesus. Grant me the discernment to prioritize what truly matters and the strength to turn away from the fleeting distractions of this world. May my focus on You be unwavering, and may it shape every aspect of my life. Amen.

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Reflection

1. What are the primary distractions in your life that hinder you from fixing your gaze on Jesus?

2. How can you intentionally create moments of stillness and focus on Him amidst the noise of daily life?

3. In what ways can redirecting your attention to Jesus impact your perspective and priorities?

Watch: Anxiety in Disguise

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