To walk implies a Decision, Determination, and a Destination. Today let us consider the final of these 3 D’s.
When a journey is begun, it is done so with a destination in mind. That means the right route must be considered so as to not get lost along the way or end up somewhere other than what had been planned. However, how many seem to be traveling through life without due consideration being given to the destination they are heading toward?
Considering one of the passages we noted yesterday, what destination was Paul keeping in focus? We read. . .
“(14) I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:14 ESV)
The Greek word translated “goal” here is “skopos” which could refer to either the finish line for a runner or the target of an archer. As Christians, our life is not a wandering, but a journey on a course with a mark or a goal on which we are to focus. There is a destination toward which each step is to be drawing us closer. Are we journeying with such a focus? Is our life remaining on the right track? Are we guarding against becoming sidetracked by some of life’s scenes that could tempt us to stop short of the goal?
Remember Jesus narrowed the focus down to two ways when He urged. . .
“(13) Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. (14) For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” (Matthew 7:13-14 ESV)
Two ways, each ultimately leading to drastically different destinations. Yes, the journey may not always be easy. We may experience going against the flow of many around us. However, it is through living life on God’s path that leads to true everlasting life to come.
Encouraging those at Corinth, Paul wrote. . .
“(17) For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, (18) as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal. (5:1) For we know that if the tent that is our earthly home is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.” (2 Corinthians 4:17-18 & 5:1 ESV)
Let us check our course. Remain drawn by the “upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Keep the focus fixed on the Heavenward goal. We have not yet arrived, but walking with Christ we are assured of safely reaching that final destination. Keep looking forward. It’s just up ahead.
Have a great day KEEPING LIFE’S ETERNAL GOAL IN VIEW!
Carl
