DODGING LIFE’S ROCKS
A Mountain Biking Devotional
Ever been mountain biking and gotten so fixated on a gnarly rock in the trail that—wham!—you plow right into it? That’s target fixation, folks, when you stare so hard at the thing you’re trying to avoid that you end up giving it a bear hug. I mean, who hasn’t kissed a tree or two on a ride? In faith, it’s the same deal: where you fix your eyes determines whether you cruise smoothly or end up with spiritual dirt in your teeth.
Let’s roll over to Hebrews 12:1-2: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”
The writer of Hebrews is like the ultimate trail guide, telling us to keep our eyes on Jesus, the guy who carved the perfect path through life’s wilderness. When we get distracted by the world’s shiny obstacles—think cultural fads, temptations, or that one coworker who’s always pushing your buttons—it’s like staring at a rock and forgetting the trail. Jesus is the clear path, and He’s not just pointing the way; He’s riding with us, probably chuckling when we almost faceplant but always ready to pull us back up.
So, what’s this mean for us? Life’s trail is littered with rocks—peer pressure, fear, or that tempting shortcut that looks like a good idea but ends in a muddy crash. Target fixation in faith is when we obsess over these things instead of keeping our eyes on Jesus. Maybe you’re stressing about fitting in at work or dodging a tough conversation about your beliefs. Don’t stare at the rock! Fix your gaze on Christ, who’s got the map and a sense of humor for when you wobble. He’ll guide you through with strength and maybe a heavenly high-five.
Ask yourself: What “rock” am I staring at that’s begging for a collision? How can I lock my eyes on Jesus instead? He’s the ultimate trailblazer, and He’s not about to let you eat dirt.
Pray: Lord, thanks for not laughing too hard when I crash into life’s obstacles. Help me fix my eyes on Jesus, dodging the rocks and riding the path You’ve set. Give me the guts and a grin to keep going. Amen.
Take action: Spot one distraction today that’s got you in a stare-down—like that worry or temptation you can’t stop eyeing. Jot it down, then write a truth about Jesus next to it (e.g., “He’s got my back” or “He’s the way”). When you catch yourself fixating, picture Jesus waving you forward with a wink, and steer toward Him like you’re chasing the smoothest line on the trail.