The Upper Room 26 May 2022 Devotional | Focused

Read and Meditate on The Upper Room Daily Devotional for Thursday 26th May 2022, written by Juan Carlos Gómez. God bless you as you study!

MAY 26, 2022 THE UPPER ROOM DEVOTIONAL FOR THURSDAY

TODAY’S TOPIC: FOCUSED
Juan Carlos Gómez (Bogotá, Colombia)

TODAY’S READING
Psalm 37:1-6

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Amid the distractions, I will focus my attention on God.

Seek first [God’s] kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. – Matthew 6:33 (NIV)

Even though I live in a 16-story building in the middle of a big city, there are nearby areas with big trees where birds nest and sing, offering a lovely symphony every morning. As the day continues, however, the crescendo of the city noise makes it difficult to hear the birds singing.

One day, during my morning prayer time, I realized that listening to the birds singing was good practice for listening to God’s voice. I decided then to focus on the sweet singing and block out the routine morning noises of the city. This, I thought, is how we are invited to seek and focus on God in the midst of daily distractions. This focus — our full attention centered on God — is what allows us to draw closer to God, unimpeded by obstacles around us.

In an anxiety-filled world, intentional study of scripture strengthens our connection with God. Remaining focused on God’s voice and presence will prompt us to seek first God’s kingdom and righteousness and allow us to rest on God’s promises.

TODAY’S PRAYER
Creator God, help us to remain focused on your grace, goodness, and the sights and sounds of your presence around us as we seek to serve your kingdom on earth. Amen.

PRAYER FOCUS
Someone beginning a new prayer discipline