Sermon Lessons: Concentration
16-18 "When you practice some appetite-denying discipline to better concentrate on God, don't make a production out of it. It might turn you into a small-time celebrity but it won't make you a saint. If you 'go into training' inwardly, act normal outwardly. Shampoo and comb your hair, brush your teeth, wash your face. God doesn't require attention-getting devices. He won't overlook what you are doing; he'll reward you well." (Matthew 6:16-18) When I was growing up, homework required peace and quiet. I was not allowed to have the radio on (yep, that means I did not have a stereo!). I could not have TV going (as a matter of fact, it could not be on till chores were done and homework was finished!). I did not get to chat on the phone with a friend while we worked on the homework together (maybe because we didn't put phones in kids rooms at that time!). Mom and Dad were really trying to give me an environment in which I could "concentrate