Pressing towards the mark

 

Philippians 3:13-14 NIV

Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

I have been on this journey with God for quite a few years.  I can not imagine a time when I did not know God.  That's a blessing in  and of itself; to have been raised in a home where God was welcomed and present. But....I have not arrived.  I have yet to win the prize. I have to forget what is behind me and start each day anew with the aim of pleasing God.  Not straining or trying to prove my worth because I am nothing without Him.  Yet, rather continuing to take steps towards heaven.  To walk in faith and not by sight.

I can not allow myself to get comfortable and stagnant.  It just can't be a read bible -check! Say prayers - check!  situation. It's not just about doing, but being one with Christ.  Nurturing that relationship with Him.  Getting to know Him better each day.  Listening out for His voice and obeying.

Its giving myself a heart check.  Making sure that my heart, will, and actions are aligned to His word.  Its a daily "grind" done with joy because I am not doing it alone.  He stands beside me.  He goes before me and follows after.  He is a good God, my only wise Savior.  So I can not become weary in doing good for His word tells me I will reap a harvest if I do not give up ( Galatians 6:9)

Life storm's come and tribulations rise, but God sees us through them all.  He is faithful and we should be faithful.  Daily walking, trusting, and growing in Him.  We must push forward with the end goal of eternity with Christ in mind. The goal of being more like Him.

Father, I thank You for many years that You have blessed me to be on this earth.  Thank You for making yourself known to me so that I could draw near to You.  Help me to not grow stagnant and weary.  Pour out Your Spirit on me so that I can continue the journey and offer You praise. Forgive me for those times when I have become complacent.  Light a fresh fire in me.  In Jesus name.  Amen