In today’s world, it feels like there’s always something happening. Every day, the news is filled with stories that demand our attention—crises, conflicts, and controversies that seem impossible to ignore. Whether it’s on our phones, televisions, or social media feeds, we’re constantly bombarded with headlines that vie for our focus and, often, our peace of mind. This constant stream of information can leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and uncertain about the future.
But amidst all this noise, there’s a vital question we need to ask ourselves: **“To focus on Jesus or to focus on the news?”
The World’s News vs. The Peace of Christ
The world’s news is designed to capture our attention, often by highlighting the most shocking or sensational stories. While it’s important to stay informed about what’s happening around us, this relentless focus on negative events can take a toll on our mental, emotional, and spiritual health. We can find ourselves becoming consumed by worry, fear, and even despair.
In contrast, focusing on Jesus offers a different perspective. Jesus calls us to “come to Him” when we are weary and burdened, promising that in Him we will find rest (Matthew 11:28-29). When we fix our eyes on Christ, we shift our focus from the chaos of the world to the unchanging truth of God’s love, grace, and sovereignty. This doesn’t mean we ignore the world’s problems, but rather, we face them with the peace that comes from knowing that God is in control.
The Call to Discernment
In John 14:27, Jesus tells His disciples, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” This peace isn’t found in the latest headlines or breaking news alerts—it’s found in a deep, abiding relationship with Christ.
However, this doesn’t mean we should bury our heads in the sand and ignore what’s happening in the world. As Christians, we’re called to be informed and engaged, to care about the issues that affect our communities and our world. But there’s a difference between being informed and being consumed. When we allow the news to dominate our thoughts, we risk losing sight of the bigger picture—God’s eternal plan and His calling for our lives.
Finding Balance: Engaged but Anchored in Christ
So how do we find the balance between staying informed and keeping our focus on Jesus?
1. Start Your Day with God, Not the News:
Before you reach for your phone or turn on the TV in the morning, take time to pray, read Scripture, and center your heart on Christ. Let God’s Word be the first voice you hear each day, setting the tone for everything else.
2. Limit Your News Intake:
It’s easy to get caught up in the 24-hour news cycle, but it’s important to set boundaries. Decide how much time you’ll spend consuming news each day and stick to it. Remember, constant exposure to negative news can drain your energy and spirit.
3. Filter the News Through a Biblical Lens:
When you do engage with the news, do so with discernment. Ask yourself, “How does this align with God’s Word? What does Scripture say about this issue?” Allow your faith to shape your perspective on the world’s events.
4. Focus on Prayer and Action:
Instead of just absorbing bad news, turn it into an opportunity for prayer and action. Pray for the people and situations you hear about in the news, and ask God how He might be calling you to make a difference in your community.
5. Stay Connected with a Faith Community:
Surround yourself with fellow believers who can encourage you, pray with you, and help you keep your focus on Christ. A strong faith community provides support and perspective when the world’s noise becomes overwhelming.
Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus
Ultimately, the choice to focus on Jesus or the news is a daily decision. It’s about choosing where to place our trust and where to draw our strength. While the world’s news may change from day to day, Jesus remains the same—yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). By fixing our eyes on Him, we can navigate the challenges of this world with peace, hope, and unwavering faith.
So the next time you feel pulled in by the latest headline or overwhelmed by the news, take a moment to pause, breathe, and refocus your heart on Jesus. Let Him be your anchor in the storm, your light in the darkness, and your constant source of hope.
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33
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