Wednesday, October 05, 2005

More Like Jesus

Pressing Toward the Goal



A Journey to Become More Like Jesus


In our Christian walk, the ultimate goal is to become more like Jesus Christ. This journey of transformation involves a deepening relationship with Christ, a rejection of worldly glory, and a surrendering of our own desires to align with God's will.


The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, offers powerful insights into this journey of faith. In Philippians 3:4-14, he reflects on his own background and accomplishments, acknowledging that his confidence could have been in the flesh. As a Pharisee, Paul had impeccable credentials according to Jewish law, but he counted all these achievements as loss for the sake of Christ.


Paul's desire to know Christ and experience the power of His resurrection transcended any earthly accolades or accomplishments. He recognized that true righteousness comes not from adherence to the law, but through faith in Christ. Paul willingly surrendered his own righteousness and worldly gains in exchange for the surpassing value of knowing Christ.


The apostle's words echo with a profound sense of humility and longing to be conformed to the image of Christ. He expresses his earnest desire to "know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings," recognizing that true transformation comes through sharing in Christ's suffering and death.


Yet, Paul also acknowledges that this journey is ongoing. He admits that he has not yet attained perfection but presses on toward the goal, reaching forward to what lies ahead. His focus is not on past achievements or failures but on pressing toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.


As we reflect on Paul's words, may we be inspired to pursue our own journey of transformation with fervent passion and determination. May we, like Paul, count all things as loss for the sake of knowing Christ and press on toward the goal of becoming more like Him each day. And may we find comfort and strength in the assurance that God, who began a good work in us, will bring it to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.


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