I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 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.

 Philippians 3:12-14

 

Inspirational author Orison Swett Marden (1848-1924) said, “There’s no greater sight in the world than that of a person fired with a great purpose, dominated by one unwavering aim.” Such a person knows how to seize each and every day.

God has created each of us with a primary purpose. We all have a reason for living. Being able to identify that reason will help us know how to live to the fullest. It will give us enthusiasm.

Why do you think God gave you life? Do you know? Spend some time considering this. What is important to you – important enough to give it your all?

The apostle Paul knew what was most important to him. In verses 10-11 he said that his reason for living was to be like Christ and to follow his example: “ I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.”

“Forget what is behind and strain toward what is ahead,” Paul tells us. Don’t keep thinking back to things that have hurt you or things you have lost. This is the day that counts, and every day is new. Every day offers fresh possibilities – possibilities to work toward the goals God might have put in your heart.

Fellowship with Christ was of utmost importance to Paul. Nothing – none of his accomplishments – had as much value as being close to Jesus – soaking up all he was: his character, his spirit, his love. Paul wanted those qualities to gradually become part of his own.

Would you like to follow Paul’s example and become more like Jesus too?

Spend time with him. Come close.

Hmm….and when we grow to be more like Jesus, I wonder how our lives would be affected? How would we live? What would we do?

Why not find out?

Seize the day. Live life to the fullest and see what happens!

marja