“My son, give me your heart and let your eyes delight in my ways.” Proverbs 23:26

Shooting is a hobby of mine, and it’s not because I’m scared. I go to the shooting range mostly because of who I will see… not because of what I will do. My friend, who is much better at shooting than I am, is usually there to guide and teach me how to shoot better. It’s been a LONG time since he has taught me ANYTHING NEW! It’s more about the reminders!

The other day I set up and obeyed his instruction to “just warm up.” That means to set up a target about 7 yards down range and shoot 10 or 20 shots to see where I am and what I need to work on. After the first round, his words were not even SEMI-automatic… “well THAT sucked!” he said. We laughed because he was right! I love Dan’s way with words!

“FOCUS,” he said. “TAKE YOUR TIME!” “SLOW DOWN!” Which was a little shocking, because the last time we met he’d told me to shoot FASTER! Confused, I reminded him of that. He un-confused me with the word ‘TIMING!’ Getting started, I need to work on fundamental basics, then when all of that is in order, a natural rhythm and pattern will produce efficient results.

The day ended early when I never really got better. The glasses I usually use I’d left at home so my focus was hard to find. My teacher said, “well dummy, what were you thinking?” And he was right. I hadn’t been. And while all this sounds like a topic on shooting, it is more about hitting any target. In my life, the Word of God is INSISTENT that I NOT be a dummy!

Jesus Christ PROMISED me abundant life! That may mean something different to each of us, but HE said the words. So if I am not FEELING or HITTING the bullseye in ‘abundant,’ it isn’t the TEACHER who has the problem. It’s the STUDENT! Meaning ‘I’ am DOING SOMETHING WRONG! His Book is there, along with His Spirit, to help me find and adjust to the target.

Are YOU seeing and focusing on what Jesus wants you to see and do? Are you adjusting your sights according to His instructions and guidance? Or are you ill-prepared, rebellious or target free? I have found Jesus even tougher and more persistent than my shooting teacher. He’s ALWAYS talking to me. And if I’m missing His point… it’s MY fault! FOCUS!