Total Focus

“Every day, in the temple and from house to house, they did not stop teaching and preaching the good news of Jesus as the Christ.”—Acts 5:42 NASB

The disciples knew their mission and were focused on accomplishing it, even while facing relentless opposition determined to silence them and restrict their actions.

Driven by jealousy, the high priest and other leaders had the disciples beaten and told them not to talk about Jesus. How did they respond? They did not go into hiding or flee for their lives but continued to speak, openly declaring the Gospel.

The high priest and his supporters were incensed and brought them before the Council. When the high priest questioned them and reminded them of the “strict orders” they had been given, Peter responded, “We must obey God rather than men” (vs. 27–29).

The disciples were flogged and ordered “not to speak in the name of Jesus.” And they immediately returned to their mission, preaching and teaching every day, everywhere God led them. They rejoiced “that they had been considered worthy to suffer shame for His name” (vs. 40–41).

The disciples did not let anyone prevent them from fulfilling God’s call on their lives. They were not distracted but continued to serve Him faithfully.

This is the kind of focus that God wants in our lives. We can have a clear sense of His calling. We can also have a relentless determination to obey and serve Him, to be so focused that we do not let anything distract us.

Reflection Question: What distracts you, and how can you minimize those things?