Stay Focused: You’re Not Behind, You’re in Process

When I was in school, teachers would often say things like “Keep your eyes on your own paper,” “Show your work,” or “I want to see what you know, not what your neighbor knows.” It sounded like a reminder to stay focused during a test, but now, looking back, I see how relevant those words are for life.

There were always students who rushed through the test, finishing twenty or thirty minutes before everyone else. Some of them really did know their material. But others just didn’t want to look like they were behind. What they didn’t realize was that finishing first didn’t guarantee a passing grade.

Meanwhile, the ones who took their time often did better because they weren’t racing against the clock or their classmates. They were focused on getting it right.

Stay Focused on Your Own Paper

We live in a culture of constant comparison. Everyone seems to be building something: a brand, a ministry, a platform, or a business. While it is encouraging to see people walk in purpose, it becomes dangerous when we start measuring our progress by someone else’s pace.

The truth is, just because someone is moving quickly does not mean they have the right answers. And just because you are taking your time does not mean you are behind. Focus on your own paper. Those words remind us that our assignments are not meant to be copied. They are meant to be completed.

Hebrews 12:1-2 reminds us to run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus. That race is set before you, not your neighbor, not your classmate, and not your favorite influencer. God holds us accountable for how we ran our own race.

Paul told Timothy to study to show yourself approved unto God (2 Timothy 2:15). That sounds a lot like “show your work.” God does not want copied callings, borrowed vision, or secondhand obedience. He wants to see what you have studied, what you believe, and how you have obeyed.

There is something sacred about showing your work. It is not about perfection. It is about process. God is just as concerned with how we build as He is with what we build. Did we cut corners to finish fast? Or did we take the time to listen, learn, and walk in obedience?

In a world chasing speed and visibility, it takes courage to slow down and stay focused. But your calling is not a group project.

So take your time. Show your work. Build with wisdom. Move at God's pace. And whatever you do, stay focused on your own paper.

Reflection:

Each of you should test your own actions. Then you can take pride in yourself alone, without comparing yourself to someone else, for each one should carry their own load. -Galatians 6:4–5 (NIV)

• Where in your life are you tempted to compare or rush through what God has called you to do?

• What would shift if you trusted that your pace is still part of His plan?