What Are You Aiming At?
"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. All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you." - (Philippians 3:13b-15, NIV)
What I find particularly fascinating in this passage of scripture is the fact that Paul had a specific articulated goal. He was striving for something. It made his heart sing, he sacrificed much (everything?) for it, and even had the audacity to suggest that others should have the same goal.
What is your goal? The old adage still rings true, “If you aim at nothing you will hit it every time.” However, it seems few of us have any goals when it comes to what we say is most important to us: Our relationship with God.
Now, in all fairness, your relationship with God may not be the most important thing to you. The Barna Research group indicates that pastors generally overestimate their congregations’ commitment to Christ (click here to see). So perhaps God is not important enough for you to make a goal and strive for.
But for those who want more, who imagine living a life of calling, who know that there must be more out there, I ask again, “what goal do you have?”
Over the next several weeks we will explore together what goals Christ might have for us.
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What goal do you have?
My goal is to follow where God leads. So far I think I have a clear leading to do what I can to help, engage and encourage young families in establishing God fearing homes. Following God seems so obvious and noble, but it is important to not assign every "great" idea as from God. That is where the testing of believers within a congregation is important. I relie on the honest interaction with other believers to help set the path.
As clerk of the meeting I have the goal to see each believer in my circle of influence to get on their own path towards God's goal. Each person asking "How can I press toward the heavenward prize for which God has called me?" would be wonderful. Inspiring people in becoming a "Taste of the Goodness of the Lord," whatever that entails for an individual, is my presiding clerk goal.
New Year, New blessings, New ways to serve God!
Bill, I'm excited about this New Year 2010. I pray that God will guide us and we follow him in this New opportunity he is giving us.