Some of the most satisfying moments of reading books comes when you discover something that has worked in your life, but someone else has articulated it. It’s the moment you discover a wisdom has proven true for someone else as well. A similar moment happened when I read Sam Chand’s words, “Some people say the devil is in the details, but I say fulfillment of vision is in the details.” I agree; focusing on the details sends the message you care, and when you care others around you will care. My dad has always referred to someone who was unwilling to find out the details as a “hill-topper,” implying they skip from hill top to hill top never exploring the depths of the mountain. And it’s usually not in a favorable suggestion.
By nature I have never liked to be bothered by details; it’s mentally very challenging. But the truth is I have never regretted knowing too much about a situation; my only regrets have come from knowing too little. I believe Jesus not only likes focus but encourages it in Luke: “Is there anyone here who, planning to build a new house, doesn’t first sit down and figure the cost so you’ll know if you can complete it? If you only get the foundation laid and then run out of money, you’re going to look pretty foolish. Everyone passing by will poke fun at you: ‘He started something he couldn’t finish.’ Or can you imagine a king going into battle against another king without first deciding whether it is possible with his ten thousand troops to face the twenty thousand troops of the other? And if he decides he can’t, won’t he send an emissary and work out a truce?” Luke 14:28-32 MSG
I think what He was encouraging was to focus, concentrate on what you are doing, close the door and clear your desk if needed but don’t go through life just by chance. The late great Jim Rohn suggested “Wherever you are… be there.” and I couldn’t agree more. I struggle wanting to use my phone and listen to the person talking to me. That’s a disgrace but I know I’m not alone. I’m going to do my best to take Jesus’ lead and focus. I know I won’t regret it, I never do.