Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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New Purpose and Goal in Christ
Bible Reading:  Philippians 3:14-17
14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus15 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.17 Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.

DEVOTION

Paul’s letter to the Philippians commemorates encouragement and gratitude to the people in Philippi. He suffered the loss of all things, having been imprisoned for his faith while writing this letter. Paul reminds the people of Philippi to value God’s kingdom over materialistic treasures.
In these passages, Paul focuses on two key points:
1. Spiritual Maturity 
   i) Spiritual maturity is not simply the mastery of scripture; rather, it is about working towards God’s goal—sharing His love for the betterment of others and denying oneself. Most importantly, it involves the understanding that we have gained salvation not through our righteousness, but through His grace.  
   ii) Our faith should be childlike, with a desire to grow in Christ. Paul considers material gains as a loss, viewing the knowledge of Christ as the most valuable accomplishment in his life. He encourages the Philippians to follow and have fellowship with role models who are Christ-like, rather than those who appear to have it all together and look down on others. They belong to the world and often project an image of constant triumph, suggesting they have already attained perfection.
   To grow in Christ, our focus must be solely on Him, remembering that we are citizens of His kingdom. We should reflect on the Parable of the “Faithful and Wise Servant” (Luke 12:35-48), where we will have to answer the master when He returns and everything will be unveiled.
2. Pressing Towards the Future
   Paul did not engage in God’s work to draw attention to himself, nor did he boast about his accomplishments or shortcomings. Instead, he aimed to win the prize that God had set before him. When we allow our regrets or worldly accomplishments to hold us back, we give room to Satan, who constantly seeks to inhibit our spiritual journey. The Christian life is like a marathon, often filled with unexpected challenges. When our journey becomes difficult, we can rely on our loving Father—He will sustain us and be with us until through eternity.  
   Ultimately, we must ask ourselves: Do we want to hear, "Good and faithful servant," or "I do not know you"?

PRAYER

Lord, help us on this journey to deny our selfish motives, spiritually mature and share Your unconditional love with others, so that we can enter Your kingdom.
Amen.

Thought for the day

Let us define ourselves who we are and then ask  His guidance to walk accordingly to reach the goal.

Luxuly Abraham, LIMTC, New York

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