Podcast Summary: Jesus the Healer w/ Nancy Dufresne Audio Podcast
Episode: 064 | Keep Your Attention On The Reward
Release Date: September 29, 2022
Host: Nancy Dufresne
Hosted by: Dufresne Ministries

Introduction

In Episode 064 of Jesus the Healer, titled "Keep Your Attention On The Reward," Nancy Dufresne delves into the profound connection between maintaining a sound mind and focusing on the divine rewards promised to believers. Emphasizing themes of faith, healing, and renewing the mind, Nancy guides listeners on cultivating a life rich in joy and peace despite life's challenges.

The Power of a Sound Mind

Nancy begins by highlighting the inherent power present in every challenging situation, especially in moments of illness or adversity.

Nancy Dufresne [00:10]: "There's enough power in every sick room and in every hospital room to raise up that sick one... Power is present. That power is there to do a work, believe in what's not."

She underscores the importance of recognizing and receiving this divine power to overcome difficulties, asserting that believers are never alone, as "the Word is our help" and "the Holy Ghost is our helper" (00:10).

Embracing a Joyful and Peaceful Life

Transitioning to the significance of the mind, Nancy shares personal anecdotes about her mother's resilience and determination, drawing a parallel to how believers should approach their mental state.

Nancy Dufresne [01:09]: "Life is short and we're not going to live it with a mind we can't live with."

She stresses that life's quality should be characterized by continuous joy and peace, not merely intermittent moments amidst difficulties (02:04). Citing Second Timothy 1:7, Nancy emphasizes that God grants believers a "sound mind," which the Amplified Translation describes as "a calm mind, a well-balanced mind, a disciplined mind and a self-controlled mind" (02:32).

Practicing Joy and Peace as a Flow

Nancy elaborates on the concept of establishing joy and peace as the continuous flow of a believer's life. She references Philippians 4:11 to illustrate how Apostle Paul maintained contentment and a sound mind even while imprisoned.

Nancy Dufresne [03:10]: "For I have learned how to be content, satisfied to the point where I'm not disturbed or disquieted in whatever state I am."

Nancy interprets Paul's attitude as a victory over turmoil, achieved by making joy and peace the default state of being, allowing external circumstances to "get swallowed up in the flow of joy and peace" (05:00).

Focus and Attention in Faith

A pivotal theme in this episode is the management of one's attention. Nancy asserts that where believers direct their focus directly influences their faith's strength and effectiveness.

Nancy Dufresne [07:27]: "What are we doing with our attention? What are we focusing on?"

She warns against allowing external worries and negative thoughts to dominate one's mental landscape, advocating instead for a deliberate focus on God's Word and promises. This intentional focus cultivates a "controlled, sound, disciplined, calm mind" (08:34).

Learning from David's Example

Nancy draws inspiration from the biblical story of David and Goliath to illustrate the power of focusing on God's rewards rather than the immediate challenges.

Nancy Dufresne [11:33]: "How does he approach the giant? He rehearsed his past victories with God."

She highlights how David's confidence was rooted not in his own strength but in God's past deliverances, enabling him to confront Goliath with unwavering faith. This focus on divine rewards, rather than the intimidating obstacle, exemplifies the episode's central message.

Nancy Dufresne [14:27]: "You be the parade master."

By parading God's past successes, David shifts his attention from fear to faith, reinforcing the importance of remembering and declaring God's victories to maintain mental and spiritual strength.

Practical Steps to Maintain Focus on the Right Things

Nancy offers actionable advice for listeners to cultivate a sound mind and focus on divine rewards:

1. Practice on Little Things: Begin by applying faith to minor challenges to build mental discipline and resilience.

2. Praise as a Tool: Utilize praise to redirect attention to God during moments of pressure, enabling a shift from worry to worship.

   Nancy Dufresne [23:46]: "One of the best things to help you hold your attention on God is praising."

3. Immerse in the Word: Encourage listeners to let the Word of Christ dwell richly within them, fostering a mind fortified against opposition.

   Nancy Dufresne [25:35]: "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly."

4. Visualize Rewards: Continually focus on the promised rewards of faith, ensuring that attention remains on the positive outcomes rather than the immediate struggles.

Conclusion

Nancy Dufresne wraps up the episode by reinforcing the symbiotic relationship between faith and attention. She encourages believers to anchor their thoughts in God's Word, practice joy and peace regularly, and fix their gaze on the divine rewards awaiting them. By doing so, listeners are equipped to navigate life's challenges with a sound, disciplined mind empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Nancy Dufresne [27:15]: "Jesus is the healer. God bless you."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Nancy Dufresne [02:32]: "God has given us a sound mind. It belongs to us. It's part of our inheritance in Christ."

• Nancy Dufresne [03:10]: "That's victory. Right there is victory. Right there is mastery. Right there is skill with what belongs to you in Christ."

• Nancy Dufresne [05:00]: "Joy and peace is to be the flow of our life. If we're not living a life of joy and peace, we're missing the target."

• Nancy Dufresne [07:27]: "What are we doing with our attention? What are we focusing on?"

• Nancy Dufresne [11:33]: "How does he approach the giant? He rehearsed his past victories with God."

• Nancy Dufresne [23:46]: "One of the best things to help you hold your attention on God is praising."

• Nancy Dufresne [27:15]: "Jesus is the healer. God bless you."

Final Thoughts

Episode 064 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of maintaining a disciplined and focused mind rooted in faith. Nancy Dufresne effectively combines biblical teachings with practical advice, empowering listeners to navigate life's battles with confidence and divine strength.