23 Oct - See The Good, See God: Why Focus Changes Everything

(When you focus on Jesus, your whole perspective changes)

Earlier this week, I was journaling when I felt God drop this into my heart:

“Stop looking at the shadows and where it looks and feels dark. Become more aware of the light.”

It was simple - but it made me consider how often we look at the negative - the shadows in the world and our life instead of the light - the good, postive and where God is at work.

I guess it's because when life gets heavy, it’s so easy to focus on the shadows. On what’s missing. On what didn’t work out.

But Jesus doesn’t live in the shadows. He is the light.

So this week I've made a choice: I'm going to focus more on the light.

Later that day, one of our daughters asked me to come with her up the coast and to spend some time at the beach. I almost stayed home. I was tired, had 100 things I could or should be doing and was not in the mood. But I felt that quiet nudge again - “Choose light. Choose my "light and easy". Step into what I’m doing.” (Matt11:28-30 TPT)

So I went to the beach.

The moment I got there, I was so glad I'd taken the time out of my day to come. I felt peace. The ocean shimmered, the air was warm, and it was like Jesus whispering, “See - My blessings are already here - you just had to look up.”

And then came the second moment - a few days later, another of our daughters (we have four) had multiple work meetings in the city and it wasn't worth her travelling home on the trian, to then have to go back again the next morning. I mentioned she should just stay overnight. She invited me to share her very nice accomodation and have a staycation in the city with her - and again Jesus had some "light" to share. During our staycation we saw how Jesus can turn the simple things into so much more.

We were unexpectedly upgraded — Like a serious upgrade - a full suite with our own rooms, king beds, our own bathrooms, kitchen, gym, spa, pool - the works. But it wasn’t just about the upgrade itself. It was what it represented: the goodness of God showing up when you stay tuned to His light and where and what He is doing.

He’d already said it in my journal:

“As you focus on the light and my goodness extended to you, you’ll become more aware of it - and draw more of it into your life.”

That’s the truth.

When you focus on Jesus, your awareness shifts. You start seeing His hand in things you used to call coincidence. You realise the blessings and His favour were there all along - you just weren’t looking.

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights.”

— James 1:17 (NIV)

“Those who look to Him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.”

— Psalm 34:5 (NIV)

If you focus on the shadows, you’ll find darkness.

But if you fix your eyes on Jesus, you’ll see light - and where there’s light, good things grow.

Action Step:

.Action Steps:

1. Shift your focus first thing.When you wake up, thank God for one good thing — even something small. Gratitude shifts your perspective toward light before the day even begins.

2. Catch the negative thoughts early.The moment you notice yourself spiralling into “what’s not working,” pause and say out loud:“I choose light. I choose to see what God is doing.”Speak it - it changes your mindset instantly.

3. Write down your “light moments.” Start a simple note in your phone or journal called “The Light List” Add every little thing that reminds you of God’s goodness - answered prayers, favour and blessings, laughter, kindness. It’ll train your heart to notice Jesus at work.

4. Go outside. Sometimes you just need to step out into creation. Look up, breathe in, feel the sunlight, and remind yourself: “His presence is here too.”

5. Bless someone else intentionally.The fastest way to stay aware of light is to be it. Send an encouraging message, pray for someone, or do one kind thing for another.

6. Pray differently this week. Instead of asking, “God, where are You?” try asking, “God, where are you working and what are You showing me right now?”You’ll start noticing how often He’s already at work in your circumstances and answering your prayers.

Think and Say:

“I’m focused on the light. I see God’s goodness everywhere.”

Prayer:

Jesus, thank You for being the light that never fades. Please help me stay focused on You so I can see Your hand in my everyday life. When shadows come, remind me where to look. In Jesus Name Amen.