Not today, but years ago in the early morning I heard these words whispered in my heart. I began to consider, wondering about experiences I have had which would either confirm or deny the proposition. The more I considered, the more settled I became that they are true.
Is our own experience important? Absolutely. But there is a higher measurement.
The Bible says what we give our attention to is very important. Our internal state is to a great extent governed by where our attention is directed. "Stop listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge." Proverbs 19:27. Our financial affairs will flourish or fail based on the attention we give them. "Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds..." Proverbs 27:23
The apostle Peter considered attention one of the most important aspects of ministry. He learned ministry from paying close attention to Jesus, devoting years of his life to be with Him. Give attention to Acts 3: "And fixing his eyes on him, Peter said, 'Look at us.' So he gave them his attention..." Then "all the people saw him walking and praising God.
Consider: (1) Peter focused laserlike attention on the man he was ministering to; (2) Peter commanded the attention of the man he wanted to touch; (3) others paid attention to the miracle.
What commands our attention today? Is that something I really want to grow in my life?
Attention is the sun, our thoughts the plants. What we give attention to grows.
