Focus on the Eternal

In Focus on the Eternal, we’re reminded not to chase temporary victories like Hannibal, but to fix our eyes on God’s everlasting Kingdom.

“While we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.”—2 Corinthians 4:18 NKJV

As a young man growing up in Carthage, northern Africa, Hannibal developed a hatred for Rome and came to believe he was destined to defeat Rome. As an adult, he became Carthage’s leading general.

In one of history’s boldest campaigns, Hannibal led his army across the Alps to attack Rome. Then he defeated Roman armies in several battles on their own soil. But his successes were short lived. Within a few years of his victories, Hannibal and his army were forced to leave the Italian peninsula. Even though they had won many battles, they lost the war. Eventually, Carthage itself was destroyed.

In the spiritual realm, many people employ this same kind of short-term strategy. They live only for day-to-day triumphs, focusing on accumulating wealth, experiencing pleasure, and gaining power. But God wants us to look at our lives from His perspective—the perspective of eternity.

Paul encouraged the Corinthians to remember how easy it can be to “look at the things which are seen.” Yet we must keep in mind that all these things are temporary. In contrast, we need to focus on spiritual things, the things which are eternal.

God wants you to be victorious every day and throughout eternity. Make sure you’ve committed your life to serving Him. Don’t place your hope on the “things which are seen.” Seek the Kingdom that will last forever.

Reflection Question: What unseen, eternal things are you focusing on today?