Direction, direction, direction.
In real estate they have an old slogan: “Location, location, location.” In other words, ultimate value for any real estate venture depends on where the property is located. We have all seen great houses on not so great lots which, in the long term, lose some or all of their worth.
However in the spiritual market of increasing values, it's not about location, it is about direction. Paul told believers in Phil 3:14 to “Press toward the goal for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” What is the high calling being spoken of here? There might be some debate about whether this is the reward for service to Christ or the intangible goal of reaching Christlikeness we are pursuing. In reality it is most likely the latter. The end goal of spiritual growth is that one day we will ultimately reach the state of being like our Savior Jesus Christ. There is no other goal greater than that, including the acquisition of rewards at the Judgment Seat of Christ.
That being said, not only does following Jesus Christ require great effort, but it also requires a great sense of direction. After all, we are told to pursue the goal for the prize of the upward call. That means we must be heading in the right direction, aiming accurately so we don't drift off course by staying in a state of Christian immaturity or simply refusing to move ahead !
If you have ever read the book of Hebrews you are familiar with this theme for the Jewish Christians in the first century. Their issue was just that, they were in constant danger of remaining in a state of spiritual immaturity. In Heb 5:11 through 6:9 the author is addressing believers who needed to grow up! Listen to it, “Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity....”. Direction in the spiritual life is important so you reach the goal!!
Consequently, direction takes on monumental importance in the Christian walk. If you are not actively pursuing conformity to Jesus Christ, you are likely misdirecting your spiritual efforts! Let me illustrate,
If you have ever been skiing, you quickly realize that you always end up in whatever direction your skis are pointing! So, if you want to end up back at the lodge at the end of your run, you need to set your ski tips in that exact direction. Even if you are off just a little bit, by the time the run is finished you may find yourself way off course.
Can I encourage you today to consider where you're pointed spiritually? Are you pursuing conformity to Christ or are you being poured into the mold of this passing world? Remember its all about direction!
However in the spiritual market of increasing values, it's not about location, it is about direction. Paul told believers in Phil 3:14 to “Press toward the goal for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” What is the high calling being spoken of here? There might be some debate about whether this is the reward for service to Christ or the intangible goal of reaching Christlikeness we are pursuing. In reality it is most likely the latter. The end goal of spiritual growth is that one day we will ultimately reach the state of being like our Savior Jesus Christ. There is no other goal greater than that, including the acquisition of rewards at the Judgment Seat of Christ.
That being said, not only does following Jesus Christ require great effort, but it also requires a great sense of direction. After all, we are told to pursue the goal for the prize of the upward call. That means we must be heading in the right direction, aiming accurately so we don't drift off course by staying in a state of Christian immaturity or simply refusing to move ahead !
If you have ever read the book of Hebrews you are familiar with this theme for the Jewish Christians in the first century. Their issue was just that, they were in constant danger of remaining in a state of spiritual immaturity. In Heb 5:11 through 6:9 the author is addressing believers who needed to grow up! Listen to it, “Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity....”. Direction in the spiritual life is important so you reach the goal!!
Consequently, direction takes on monumental importance in the Christian walk. If you are not actively pursuing conformity to Jesus Christ, you are likely misdirecting your spiritual efforts! Let me illustrate,
If you have ever been skiing, you quickly realize that you always end up in whatever direction your skis are pointing! So, if you want to end up back at the lodge at the end of your run, you need to set your ski tips in that exact direction. Even if you are off just a little bit, by the time the run is finished you may find yourself way off course.
Can I encourage you today to consider where you're pointed spiritually? Are you pursuing conformity to Christ or are you being poured into the mold of this passing world? Remember its all about direction!
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