I’m sitting in Orlando by the biggest pool I’ve ever seen. The cool, blue water waves invitingly. I’m lounging in the shade, thinking about life and people-watching.

It’s an environment I’m not accustomed to — a sprawling resort with all the amenities you could want. When the young woman making regular “rounds” offering food and drinks asks if I need something, I’m tempted to say, “I can get it,” not wanting her to go to any trouble for me! Then I remember it’s her job and how she makes money.

As I enjoy the cool breeze and people-watching, I realize that in the midst of this place, there is a huge cross high up over the center of the pool! It wasn’t meant to be a cross, I’m sure. It’s part of a mast on a replica of a boat.

But it’s there! And it’s a cross! Whether people see or acknowledge it, it’s still there for all to see!

It’s just like in our everyday life — whether the world acknowledges him or not, he is here, in the midst of everything. Probably most of us reading this are believers who need to be reminded to “see” him in everyday happenings. But he is there for non-believers, too.

“For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities — his eternal power and divine nature — have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.” (Romans 1:20)

Look around. Where do you see him?

Have you been to a quaint town that has horses and buggies so you can ride around and see the town? It brings such peace to my mind when I think of these calm scenes.

Of all the places I have seen horses pulling carriages, what I’ve noticed they have in common is “blinders.” The owner knows that for the horse to remain focused and do what it’s supposed to do, it needs them.

The Dallas Equestrian Center says, “The blinders cover the rear vision of the horse, forcing it to look only in a forward direction and keeping it on track. Blinders are also useful to reduce the chances of the horse being spooked and making a run for it while still attached to the wagon.”

I need spiritual blinders! I want to focus on living for Jesus every day, all day. But there are so many distractions. Besides the fact that I think I have ADD, our world is noisy!

Escaping to a quiet place (probably not at home) is the main way I’ve found to focus. Sitting in my car in a park, by the beach, lake, etc. is where I’m the most successful.

But I don’t always have the time or inclination to leave home to have a study/quiet time. I need parameters, like blinders, so I can focus wherever I am.

One thing that comes to mind is what I read once about Ruth Bell Graham, wife of Billy Graham. When she had young children and so much to do at home, she opened her Bible to a passage she wanted to focus on and placed it on her kitchen counter. All day long she referred to it, and it helped her remember her purpose throughout the day.

That’s what I need as I go about my day! Since I’m often working or running errands during the day, I have discovered that writing a verse on an index card and placing it nearby can be effective to keep me focused.

For example, if I am having a stressful time, reading this verse throughout the day is so helpful and calming:

“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned.” (Isaiah 43:1-2)

Or Isaiah 40:31 — “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.”

As I think about these verses and pray them, especially out loud, they are soothing and reassuring and often provide the “blinders” I need.

Take a deep breath, relax, and read these verses.

He will give you strength and peace.