By Wayne Robbins 11/13/2024
Years ago, I read Stephen Covey’s The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, and one quote from that book has remained with me: “The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing.
” Covey’s message is simple yet profound—determine what matters most in life and make it a central, unwavering focus, steering clear of the distractions that dilute our time and energy. As Christians, this idea aligns powerfully with the Gospel message. Scripture calls us to live focused, centering our lives on what truly matters in God’s eyes.
Identifying Your “Main Thing”
Covey's book encourages readers to define their “main thing”—the values and purposes that should shape their days. The Bible echoes this focus on living intentionally, urging followers of Christ to prioritize what is eternal. In Matthew 6:33, we read, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” God’s Word reminds us that our primary purpose is not found in the fleeting pursuits of this world but in seeking His kingdom and aligning our lives with His will.
For me, the main things are clear: Glorifying God, Serving His church, and Nurturing the physical and spiritual well-being of my family. Reflecting on whether I’m keeping these priorities in focus, I developed a litmus test that helps me gauge if I’m staying true to my purpose.
A Personal Litmus Test for a Purposeful Life
My test is straightforward: if I am engaged in activities that I know I will never regret—such as studying Scripture, serving the church, or spending quality time with family—then I’m on track. However, if I find myself investing time in things I may regret later, such as hours of meaningless videos or the daily ever-changing news cycle, I realize I need to adjust. Ephesians 5:15-16 teaches us, “See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” God’s Word guides us to be intentional with our time, using it wisely to draw nearer to God and to serve others.
When I spend my time preparing a sermon, writing articles that edify others, or connecting with my family, I end the day with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. But if I spend hours absorbed in meaningless distractions, I know that I’ve missed the mark. These fleeting pursuits, while harmless at times, have NO eternal value. I strive to avoid these, remembering James 4:14: “For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.” Life is short, and I am reminded daily to cherish and invest it in what truly matters.
Daily Practices That Keep the Focus
In my routine, I have a small but important habit: every morning, I sit on a stool in my closet to put on my shoes and pray. I know I will never regret this time in prayer, no matter how long I sit there. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” My time spent in prayer is time invested in peace, relationship with God, and alignment with His will.
Similarly, I will never regret the hours I spend reading or memorizing Scripture. “Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11). Scripture grounds us, keeps us aligned with God’s ways, and serves as a constant source of strength. I also value moments of family connection—taking a simple getaway with my wife and children and us all growing closer along the way. Spending time with loved ones is irreplaceable, and I know that one day, I will look back grateful for these cherished moments. I hope my grandkids live close by in the future, but if they don’t, I can't imagine that I would ever regret spending hours driving to see them and being a Godly influence in their life.
Recognizing and Avoiding Regrets
As I assess my life, I notice that the things I would regret often relate to personal hobbies or entertainment that offer no lasting value. While these activities are not inherently wrong, I recognize that indulging excessively in them could prevent me from being fully present with my family or neglecting my service to God. Christ warned about being a servant to the carnal instead of to the spiritual: Matthew 6:24, "No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.
Time is limited. Each day we are given a gift to live focused on God. I urge you to consider what you will or will not regret as you look back on your life. In 1 Corinthians 10:31, we’re reminded, “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” This verse captures the heart of living with a Christ-centered purpose, grounding every action in the pursuit of glorifying God.
Encouragement to Keep Your “Main Thing” at the Center
If you haven’t yet identified your “main thing,” I encourage you to do so today. Reflect on what matters most to God and align your life with His purposes. This world offers countless distractions, but as followers of Christ, we are called to fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Keep the main thing the main thing. Start by taking one intentional step that brings you closer to what matters most—whether it’s spending time in prayer, reading Scripture, or reaching out to encourage someone.
Let us each remember that our purpose goes beyond ourselves; it is about honoring God, strengthening others, and building up His kingdom. Galatians 6:9 encourages us, “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” May we commit ourselves to keep the main thing the main thing, confident that in doing so, we are investing in an eternal harvest. “Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ” (Philippians 1:27), so that each day reflects His glory in all we do. Why not do something this minute, instead of letting it slit by, that focuses on your main thing.
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