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Key Bible Verses: But I am focusing all my energies on this one thing … to reach the end of the race and receive the prize (Philippians 3:13–14). Bonus Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:1–18

The Vietnam War remains an exasperating chapter in American history. Having been drawn into what Gen-eral De Gaulle warned Presi-dent Kennedy would be a "quagmire," the mightiest nation in the world was soundly defeated by a relatively small group of peasant-guerrillas. The U.S. military had the means and the will to demolish the Vietnamese infrastructure—but the politicians didn't have the will. Discord resulted, and uncertainty prevailed. In stark contrast to the American ambivalence to the war, Ho Chi Minh won the day through sheer determination and unwavering objectives.

Lack of focus and inner turmoil also spell defeat for the church. The church in Corinth, for instance, was blessed by God with "generous gifts," positioned in one of the most influential parts of the ancient world, and taught and trained by the great apostle Paul himself. Yet this church failed to reach its potential. It dissipated its spiritual energy on internal struggles and lost any sense of the "main thing."

Wherever you look, the principle holds: Focus, cohesion, and commitment spell victory. Turmoil, strife, and confusion promise defeat.

—Stuart Briscoe in The One Year Book of Devotions for Men

My Response: The goal I need to refocus on is …

Thought to Apply: One motivation is worth ten threats, two pressures, and six reminders.—Paul Sweeney (writer)

Adapted from The One Year Book of Devotions for Men (Tyndale, 2000) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Lord, give me a goal big enough to be worthy of You, and love strong enough to stick with it.

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