John 18-- Focus in the Midst of Pain

We've all experienced pain. Maybe it is the pain of stubbing our little toe on the sofa or the pain from a life-threatening illness, but pain gets our attention. The greater the pain, the more we focus on it and less on everything else. The same is true with emotional pain. As our emotional pain--whether it's from being rejected, abused, unloved or whatever--grows, so does our inability to focus on anything else in life. We all know about the incredible physical pain that Christ suffered, but we often forget about the deep emotional pain He also endured. In John 18 we see Jesus betrayed by one of His own. Then we see another disciple denying he even knew Christ, not once, but three times! No crowds shouting "Hosanna!" This time they are shouting "No, not Him! Give us Barabbas!" (v40). Imagine the unbelievable emotional pain that Christ experienced. But He did not, however, focus on the pain. Instead, He stayed focused on His mission. There are three things Jesus did to maintain focus in the midst of pain, and we can do the same. First, Jesus knew that people would let Him down (v4). He didn't hold unrealistic expectations of never being hurt by those closest to Him. Second, He was committed to the Father's will no matter the cost (v11). Finally, He clearly understood His purpose for being in this world (vv36-37) to the point that He could say "For this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth." You see, when you and I clearly understand our purpose in life--the reason God created us and placed us in this world--it makes it much easier to maintain focus even when suffering. Pain, both physical and emotional, is a natural part of life. But it doesn't have to sideline us. We can keep our focus and glorify God if we have realistic expectations of others, an unwavering commitment to God's will, and a clear understanding of our life's purpose.

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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at www.maxpoint.org/message_board.