Philippians 3:12-14 (NKJV) Pressing Toward the Goal
12 Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. 13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Welcome to a New Year! How was last year? Was it all you hoped it would be? How will you approach this year? What are your feelings about what is coming? Have you been trying to go it alone in the past? Is that the way it was meant to be? Are things going your way or does every day seem like a struggle? It was not meant to be. God created the world and all that is in it including a paradise garden called Eden. Then, He created Adam and Eve and placed them in that garden. They walked with Him in the cool of the afternoon. All was well. But things went awry! At present, we have challenges. The world is a dark place. Sometimes, it can be overwhelming. We need to remain focused. But focused on what? What do you see when you watch the news? We need to be focused on Him!
When we focus on Jesus, shadows disappear. Things become possible! Hope is renewed! We go forth into the future with a positive attitude and a feeling we can make a difference. And it is true. You can make a difference. You were anointed, equipped and empowered by your Creator. He asks you to remain in faith, to press on toward the future. The past can hinder us! Will you let last year’s difficulties block the blessing God has for you in New Year by not pressing forward toward the goal of the upward bound call of Christ Jesus? He calls you to faith, to love and to His call. What is His call? He calls you to Love Him with all your heart, soul mind and strength and to love your neighbor as yourself.
So, this year, learn to love yourself as God loves you! Then, go out and love your neighbor as yourself. If you don’t like the condition of the world, go out and change your little corner. Make me proud of you! Receive and use the Blessings!
Thank You Lord for granting us a New Year. Be with us as our guide so that we can live Your way, love others and glorify You. In Your name we pray!