President Franklin Roosevelt used this old quotation to help him get elected: “As you travel through life, my brother, whatever may be your goal; keep your eye on the doughnut and not upon the hole.” It means: focus on what is real and important and don’t be consumed with what can hinder us from reaching our life goal. That’s a principle the Apostle Paul used writing to the Colossian Christians long ago. In Ch 3, he urged them to get rid of irrelevant distractions that can sap our spiritual energy; instead focus on the all important goal of becoming more like Jesus Christ our Lord. He wrote, “Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts.” “And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.” That’s good advice.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
