It’s our fifth and final reflection of the Joy to the Soul summer series. As you read the blog, I hope you’re having a few reflections of your own. Whether we choose a vacation or staycation, have family gatherings or quiet evenings alone, there is plenty of summer left for us to enjoy.

But our annual trip to the beach is being exchanged for overdue updates to our kitchen. And yet, the thrill of selecting new countertops doesn’t compare with the joy of the ocean’s waves crashing over my feet. The idea of a white brick back splash makes me happy. But spending time gazing at a shoreline brings me tranquility. As much as I miss the beach, I admit my conflict isn’t much of a dilemma. Being stuck in a battle between two blessings isn’t a bad place to be.

But if we spend our summer days, or any day, releasing our cares to God, we may be surprised by what He reveals to us.

Which brings me to this week’s whisper, focus. It’s really the only way to hear a whisper well. With distractions silenced, our ears are in tune. It’s the focus of “5 Ways Summer Whispers to the Soul.” You may have a favorite reflection from the last 4 weeks. Perhaps you’ve heard summer whisper something unique to you. But here’s a quick review from the series.

• With summer’s humid days and often breezy nights, the warmest season reminds us things don’t always stay the same.
• Yet, stillness is a posture of receiving.
• Then summer rain, brought us a reminder. New challenges are new opportunities for us to grow.
• But even with the delicious delights summer brings to our taste buds, the soul is looking for more.

What is your focus this summer? Are you reading a book or trying a hobby for the first time? Are you putting a new recipe on the grill or finishing an old project?

In addition to my kitchen update, there is plenty more on my want-to-do list. But focus is a choice, and our choices hold power. There are plenty of examples in Scripture; like when the Apostle Paul contemplated completing his purpose in Christ. He penned these words to encourage himself. And yet, it encourages us too.

“No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead” (Philippians 3:13 NLT).

I’ve tried. But there is no way around it. Focus offers us a one thing at a time approach.

So even as I cherish my beach memories, I’ll look forward to God’s plan for this summer. He has the details. I’ll bring my trust. It’s the best way for me to find my focus in Him.

“We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.” (Hebrews 12:2 NLT).

REFLECTION OR DISCUSSION: With the remainder of the summer, what are you hoping to do more of — more rest, more gatherings, or more travel? What will be your focus as you choose?

I hope you’ve enjoyed these “Joy to the Soul Summer” reflections. If you’re new to the series, you can read more posts here.

I’ll return in a few weeks, after taking time off through August. But don’t forget to subscribe. You’ll receive the newest updates in your inbox. Have a safe and enjoyable summer!