A Servant's HeartSample

“I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:14)

After the summer holidays we tend to roll into ‘normal life.’ The kids go back to school, we take up work or study again and slowly our agenda is filled. It’s a time to evaluate: where am I in life? What do I want to achieve this year? What goals did I have early in the year, and was I successful in reaching those goals? Well… not much. Covid-19 is still hindering my plans; everyone’s plans!

We can be impressed with this Scripture about Paul. He is very focused and presses on to reach his goal. Wow, how decisive and energetic. But… what is his goal? Did he have a picture in his mind of how his life should be? A wife, a wonderful career with a good salary, power and influence? A beautiful home?

No, his goal was to win the prize for which God called him heavenward in Christ Jesus. His idea of the fullness of blessing was to be with Jesus. To experience the power of His resurrection, to participate in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death (vs.10). We should share this higher goal in life, it’s wonderful how this puts everything in a God glorifying perspective.

Martha was working so hard for her guests while Mary was just sitting at the feet of Jesus. (Luke 1:39) But to Jesus only one thing was important and that’s what Mary was doing. To God you are already immensely valuable, even without achieving some visible goal. At the same time, faith is a call to continue. Paul had not yet achieved his goal (vs.12) and would continue to suffer hardships and yet, he was determined to pursue his goal.

Are we busy pursuing this heavenly prize? Every day we need to be determined to spend time with God. To not worry about all the things we need to do, or be discouraged because we did not achieve all our goals, but instead place our life into God’s hand and put our hope in Him.

He will give you what you need. Seek His Kingdom first.