Shun unhealthy self-focus (2)

When dealing with self-focus, you may ask, “What about those scriptures that specifically tell us to ‘watch’? Aren’t they all about keeping an eye on ourselves?” That’s a good question, so let’s take a look at some of those “watch” passages in scripture. In Mark 13:34-37 (NKJV), we read, “A man going to a far country…left his house and gave authority to his servants, and to each his work, and commanded the doorkeeper to watch. Watch therefore, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming—in the evening, at midnight, at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning—lest, coming suddenly, he finds you sleeping. And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!” What Jesus was teaching here is the exact opposite of self-focus. The doorkeeper wasn’t to watch himself, but to watch for his returning master. Jesus expects us to forget ourselves, work conscientiously for His kingdom, and be watching and prepared for His return. He said, “Blessed are those servants whom the master, when he comes, will find watching. Assuredly, I say to you that he will gird himself…have them sit down to eat, and will come and serve them.” Far from an obsessive introspection that leaves you exhausted, discouraged, and disappointed with yourself, Jesus wants you to be excited and involved in His work here on earth, to actively watch for the coming again of your Lord and King. “Look to Me, [not to yourself!] and be saved…For I am God, and there is no other” (Isaiah 45:22 NKJV). So focus more on God—and less on yourself.