A Prayer for Focus

Do you sometimes feel as though you’re being pulled a gazillion different directions? If so, you’re not alone!

People cry for our attention. Work responsibilities and household chores call us. Social media clamors for our participation. Noise of every description invades our space. Sometimes it’s downright difficult to keep focused on what matters most because the urgent constantly distracts us.

King David recognized our human tendency to be distracted from what really matters. When he appointed Solomon to build the Temple, he acknowledged that his son was young and untested. He knew that fulfilling this assignment would demand the young man’s undivided attention, and so he prayed, “Give my son Solomon an uncluttered and focused heart so that he can obey what you command, live by your directions and counsel, and carry through with building The Temple for which I have provided” (1 Chronicles 29:14-19, The Message).

I find King David’s prayer encouraging, and I plan to add it to my list of favorites. Not only will I ask it on my kids’ and grandkids’ behalf, but I’ll pray it for myself as well. My desire is to stay on task with whatever God wants of me each day and ultimately for my life purpose. That means maintaining a heart that’s focused on Him–free from the clutter of outside voices such as social media, free from the tug of my own selfish desires, and free from trying to do too much because I’m afraid to say no or afraid of appearing inadequate.

“Give me an uncluttered and focused heart so I can obey what You command, live by Your directions and counsel, and carry through with Your divine assignments.” Will you join me in making this your prayer? Imagine the depth to which we would grow in our faith and the resulting impact on our world if we all prayed these words!