The last few weeks I have been on a journey with the Lord. He has reminded me of the title of my blog, "Focus Upward" and why I named it that. It was so I would always look to Him for direction.

However, I have recently found myself being tempted to turn or pay attention to other things and other people. It's so easy to pay too much attention to the news, to what others are doing or aren't doing. It's easy to get caught up in comparing my life to others. But Jesus reminded me this week of Proverbs 4:27 (NIV):

"Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil." 

I also love how the Passion Translation reads: 

"Set your gaze on the path before you. With fixed purpose, looking straight ahead, ignore life’s distractions. Watch where you’re going! Stick to the path of truth, and the road will be safe and smooth before you. Don’t allow yourself to be sidetracked for even a moment or take the detour that leads to darkness." (Proverbs 4:25-27)

I found that my joy was being sapped and felt like I had no time in my day. The truth was that I had turned my attention and time to other things that didn't allow space for God to speak to me. So, I have made some adjustments to my schedule, reading more, listening more and even turning off the tv and radio at times, so I can listen to Him. I need to quiet the noise in order to allow my heart to tune in and hear and feel His! 

What do you need to turn to or turn away from today? Take a few minutes to soak in His presence and listen to one of my favorite hymns. Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus! 

This post is part of Kate Motaung's "Five Minute Friday," which she hosts on the Five Minute Friday website. Kate posts a single word each week and each blogger sets a timer for 5 minutes to write and then posts, with very little editing. Check out the other writers this week!