Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:12-14
Setting the Compass with God’s Word (Part 3) - By Van Houser
Every journey, no matter how long or short, begins with the first step. But the journey is not ended until the last step is made. Anyone intending to complete a journey must pay attention to the directions and follow the course to the end or their journey will be delayed. God’s compass (His Word) commends every believer to persevere and complete the journey of faith.
God’s Compass Requires Determination - so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:17To know your destination gives you direction but to reach it requires determination. Jesus called on His followers to “count the cost” of discipleship before they chose to follow. We want the destination without the journey so often. In fact, we often try to find every way possible to shorten the journey or skip it altogether, but the journey is where the growth happens. The journey is where the lessons are learned. Sometimes the journeys we are on are not the ones we would have chosen, but there is a reason. If your journey seems hard, trust and persevere in the Guide. He has promised that He will do His part in bringing us to our final destination. For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6 Our part is to cooperate with His Spirit within us to know the abundant journey Christ promised.
- We Must Be Determined to be Equipped - Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15
Our journey involves the bringing in of God’s Kingdom. We have a purpose for our journey. God will never send you or ask you to do that which He has not equipped and supplied you with what is needed to accomplish the task. If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies,1 Peter 4:11
- We Must Be Determined to Work - Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith. Galatians 6:9-10
The Christian life is not a life of ease nor a life of duty; it is a life of service. We serve our Lord out of love as we journey. That makes every day have a purpose and person we contact significant. The rewards of heaven will reflect in some way our earthly service. Following the compass for our destination and direction with determination gives meaning to our life journey.
I’ve used quite a bit of scripture in this series of devotionals because it would be wrong to speak of seeking guidance from them if I ignored them. But there is so much more to discover. That’s where we must all begin. The study of God’s Word. Set the compass!
-->Scripture to Claim:The steps of a man are established by the LORD, And He delights in his way. When he falls, he will not be hurled headlong, Because the LORD is the One who holds his hand. Psalms 37:23-24
