I run straight toward the goal to win the prize that God’s heavenly call offers in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:14
Caleb was focused and determined that day on the soccer field. His heart’s desire was to please grandma and grandpa. His goal was to put at least one ball into the net.
Dave and I sat on the bleachers watching with amazement as our grandson scored one ball after another. His efforts had paid off and before the game was over, he scored seven times!
I caught a glimpse of our grandson’s heart that day. A valuable truth I long to live by. I want to run straight toward the goal of knowing and pleasing my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
The best way I know of reaching that goal is found in the Word of God. It’s there I find hope and encouragement, direction and purpose, grace and strength for each new day.
The book of Philippians is a good roadmap for those who share that goal. It’s there I found three challenging mindsets I’d like to share with you.
Three Ways To Reach The Goal Set Before You
1. Focus on knowing Jesus
I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from
the dead. (Philippians 3: 10).
2. Forget the Past, focus on the future
No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one
thing; forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead. (Phil. 3:13).
3. Focus on finishing well and winning the prize
I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for
which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. (Phil. 3:14).
Dear friend, Is there some obstacle blocking your pursuit of the call of Jesus…some mindset you need to adopt, some fear or hesitancy you need to let go of? We can’t run the race well, if we’re not willing to let go of all it takes to follow Jesus.
Prayer: Father God, Forgive us for the times we fail to step forward and do what you call us to. We ask you to give us grace to move forward, a heart to trust and love you, and confident faith to believe we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. In the name of Jesus, amen.
Now that we’re on the right track, let’s stay on it. (Phil. 3: 16 Message).
As I told my grandson Caleb, I’ll get my reward when I see Jesus!
So will you!
Glenda Mills 
. . . that good prize set before us . . . thanks, Glenda!. . . . and thanks Caleb for the incentive!
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Isn’t he a cutie? Love it when God speaks through the children and grandchildren in our lives.
Thanks for stopping by, Verna!
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Love, love, love the way our kids (and grandkids) lead us back to Christ! Thanks for the pep talk, Glenda!
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Yes, out of the mouths of babes and children and grandchildren God tugs at our hearts! From one pep talker to another, thanks Becky for stopping by. I always appreciate your visits!
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Love the three main points you highlight. Thanks for reminding us all that if we’ll focus on knowing Christ, we’ll be in the Word daily and it will light our path for our feet to move ahead in His way and plans.
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Oh yes, His Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path…otherwise we not only lose focus, but our joy, and our reason for living. Thanks for taking time to comment Jeanette! Blessings to you.
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The goals, and, THE GOAL. Well said my love.
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Thanks! (:
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When I focus on my problems instead of Jesus, that’s when I fall and have no strength or power for my day. Thanks for the reminder to keep my eyes on Him and to let go of the other stuff. Blessings!
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Angela, It seems focus continues to be so important, especially for the times we live in. There are so many distractions that tempt us to take our focus off our Father. Praise God for the indwelling Holy Spirit who helps us in our weaknesses and helps us refocus on the Lord and his promises. Thanks for stopping by! God bless you today!!
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Just heard a great message on focusing on the prize to come – if we had this lesson in perspective, we could shrug off our ‘momentary troubles’ with much more ease, couldn’t we? Nice post, Glenda!
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Yes, our momentary troubles can sure tempt us to lose focus Melody. This continues to be a life long process for me. Thanks for stopping by with your encouraging words, Melody…and thanks for liking the other posts you just clicked on. Blessings!
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