Gaze: Fixing Your Eyes on Jesus Above the Distractions

This week’s reflection comes straight from our Fall Blessings: Simple Devotionals for What Matters Most, a series built around Four Paths to Gratitude. Today’s path is Gaze—an invitation to lift your eyes above the noise when life pulls in every direction. To read the full devotional, download the free series using the link.

Fall Blessings: Simple Devotionals for What Matters Most

“And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” – Hebrews 12:2

Ever have one of those days when your mind feels like a browser with too many tabs open? I sure have! And the holidays—with all their extra obligations and preparations—tend to land squarely in that category for me.

Ironically, the one thing that would help me most is often the one I struggle to make room for in the middle of the busyness—time with Jesus. It’s so easy to make excuses. I tell myself, Well, it’s just a busy season. God understands, or Just get me through this day, Jesus. I promise to make time for You tomorrow.

I’m sure the enemy just smiles smugly when I do. He knows the longer I delay creating space for prayer and Scripture, the easier it becomes to pull me off track—and down dark rabbit holes.

You know the ones: obsessing over a challenging person or situation, getting sucked back into anxiety or discouragement, worrying endlessly about things I can’t control. The enemy loves nothing more than to see me stumble there.

After running into one too many of those holes, I’ve learned a powerful truth: the times I’m the busiest are actually the most important times to carve out margin for God.

It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate. It can be as simple as reading a verse in the morning and praying in the shower, or trading fifteen minutes of scrolling for fifteen minutes with Jesus. Even listening to Scripture while I cook, clean, or prepare helps re-center my focus where it belongs.

As the holidays draw near, I’m learning that fixing my gaze on Jesus changes everything. When I pause long enough to look to Him—right in the middle of the noise and chaos—peace starts to quiet the swirl inside me. My circumstances may not slow down, but my heart does.

This season, I don’t want to move through the days distracted and drained; I want to notice His presence woven through them. Because when my eyes stay on Jesus, even the busiest moments become sacred ones.

Prayerful Reflection

Jesus, thank You for meeting me even in the middle of my busyness. When my thoughts scatter and my to-do list overwhelms me, draw my eyes back to You. Teach me to pause, breathe, and find Your peace. Help me remember that spending time with You isn’t another task to check off—it’s the very thing that gives meaning to everything else I do.

Put It Into Practice

Today, choose one small way to make space for Jesus in the middle of your schedule. Read a short passage of Scripture before checking your phone, pray while you’re cooking or driving, or take a short walk and thank God for His presence. Even a few intentional minutes with Him can reset your focus and restore your peace.

Share the Gratitude

Send a quick text or note to someone who helps you stay grounded in faith—a friend, mentor, or prayer partner—and thank them for reminding you to keep your eyes on Jesus when life feels busy. Your words may be the encouragement they need today.

ABOUT BARB LOWNSBURY

Barb is a speaker, author, and entrepreneur. She holds Bachelor's Degrees in International History and Education, as well as a Master’s Degree in Education. Barb has spoken at conferences and taught classes throughout the U.S. on topics including faith, relationships, leadership, and courage through trials. Her book, Using What’s Broken to Boldly Shine, is a powerful read on transformation through adversity. Her blog focuses on providing people with everyday encouragement and strength. Barb serves as the Executive Director for The Dented Fender Ministry and runs a successful real estate and development company. She and her husband currently reside in Dayton, Ohio.

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