Focused on God’s Priorities

Jesus knew that His life had a purpose. He understood that the Father had given Him goals to complete.

This clear perspective provided Jesus with focus for His actions and decisions. But others could not understand this calling. After explaining His mission to the disciples, Peter actually rebuked Jesus, saying, “God forbid it, Lord! This shall never happen to You.”

From his human perspective, Peter could not understand what Jesus was saying. So Jesus responded, “Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on God’s interests, but man’s” (Matthew 16:21-23 NASB).

Jesus knew that He was “under a heavy burden,” and this burden would not lift until He had accomplished His ministry. The Greek words here give a deeper sense of all that Jesus was going through. He felt arrested, just like a prisoner. He felt preoccupied and compelled to fulfill His assignment. He was fixed and focused on the mission the Father had given Him.

This is the impact of having a “burden” for the things of God. It means understanding that we’ve been called by God and are on a mission from Him. When God gives us this kind of burden, we feel compelled to accomplish it. It becomes a driving force in our lives. It gives us focus, even when others may not understand.

Each of us has a unique call from God, with special goals. Like Jesus, we are to focus on fulfilling this call. As we do, our lives have special meaning and direction. Others may not understand this burden, and it may seem irrational and illogical to them (just as Peter tried to argue Jesus out of pursuing His mission).

But we must remain sensitive to the unique burdens God gives us. Conscious of His presence, we must use the resources He has given us to accomplish His purposes.