Sunday Morning Series - Enduring Change - Focus

Text:  Luke 17:11-19

The lepers in this story made their journey because of a great need. They had no other hope of healing besides Jesus. When there's no hope, this journey is easiest.

Other things keep people from this journey. Their attention is on their jobs, relationships, finances, etc. For most people, the importance of something is not proportional to the attention it receives.

Focused on a Command

In Luke 17:14, Jesus commands the lepers to go show themselves to the priest. The only reason to see the priest was a change in their physical condition. Anyone will make a trip if they are sure they will get something. It's the lack of certainty that keeps everyone from making it.

These ten lepers had faith that something would change. Without it, what Jesus told them to do would not be lawful.

Focused on Worship and Thanksgiving

As the lepers went to see the priest, they were healed. One of them, a Samaritan, went back to Jesus to thank and worship Him. The others were still focused on need. But one changed his focus to what was important, worship and gratitude.

What has God spoken to you? FOCUS!

1.  Do not (never) be anxious or worry (Philippians 4:6). Carrying this kind of weight puts strain on you and weakens you. It supports things in your  life you don't want. Symptoms of  anxiety include:

Restlessness
Irritability
Muscle tension or aches
Headaches
Sweating
Nausea
Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep
Tiredness
Trembling
Difficulty breathing

This is a partial list found on a medical website.

2.  (Always) Be glad and rejoice.

Do you complain? Are you yelling at things, people? You cannot complain without setting aside your gratitude, joy, and gladness.

See: Psalms 9:1-2, 31:7, 32:11, 34:1-3, 68:1-4, 70:4, 104:33-34, 118:24

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If you're visiting in the area or looking for a church home, we invite you to our Sunday Morning Service, at 10:00 AM. Children's Church also begins at 10:00 AM. We look forward to meeting you!