Whether you’re hunting a deer, driving a car or slicing a cake, life demands focus. If you want to be successful at whatever you’re doing, you need to give what’s important your undivided attention. Being “focused” is about more than that, however. It’s not enough just to stare at something, unmoving. You also have to observe all that’s around you to make sure you haven’t missed something. A good driver doesn’t just stare out the windshield; he also checks his mirrors regularly. A good hunter doesn’t just stare off into the woods; he also listens for the sound of crackling leaves. And so on. Essentially, to “stay focused” means to follow a checklist of things that require attention.

Spiritually, Paul says something similar…

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Philippians 4:8

The phrase “think on these things” could be literally translated “take an inventory.” Paul wants us to examine our thoughts and follow a checklist, making sure that our mind is full of things true, honest, just, pure, lovely, well-spoken of, etc. All things of virtue and things worthy of Divine praise should be what is in our mental inventory. Christians must stay focused, and ensure that their minds are always full of these Christian characteristics.

Are you staying focused?