Thursday 6 May, 2021

12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 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, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. 15 All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. 16 Only let us live up to what we have already attained.

Paul’s goal as he writes this is to take hold of Christs plan and purpose for his life.  Paul realises that in the midst of living out this plan there will be a context of challenge, race and needing to push through obstacles.  Paul reminds us that the prize isn’t of this earth but is in heaven.   

As I read this, I am reminded that just as Paul took hold of what God had for him, he understands that it is also Christ who supplies the resources for him to ‘press on towards the goal.’  It isn’t in my strength that I need to press on towards the goal.  The Holy Spirit steps in and helps me, He reminds me that the prize isn’t earthly but heavenly, that in the midst of the challenges and wins it is worth it because of the privilege it is to serve Christ.

Jesus, thank you that you do have a plan for my life.  Help me today to remember Christ’s plan for my life and that you by the power of the Holy Spirit supply all that I need to fulfill it.   Fill me again with your Holy Spirit and help me today to live in accordance with your ways. In Jesus Name, Amen!

Written by Ps. Annique Botta