Tag: Discipleship

Singly Focused

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HIGHLIGHT

Philippians 3:17 (ESV): 17 Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us.

EXPLAIN

Paul wrote this letter from prison, and in the context of opposition from some in the Church. Despite his circumstances, he was filled with joy for the grace of God in him and in those to whole he was writing.

He did warn his readers of those who corrupted the gospel, saying they were more spiritual or at least more confident of their salvation because of their heritage, good works, etc.

Paul noted that in that regard he had many credentials, but he gave them all up for the surpassing worth of knowing Jesus Christ in the power of his resurrection, sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, that he might attain the resurrection of the dead.

Paul had not attained all this. He was not perfect. But his aim was set. So he invited his readers to join him and others who had this passion for knowing Jesus fully.

APPLY

Despite our circumstances and what is going on around us, Christ calls us to follow him and to join with those who follow him.

We must not be distracted by the world or discouraged by opposition. Rather, our devotion must be to Jesus.

RESPOND

Heavenly Father, help me to walk according to the example Jesus left behind, as well as those of other followers of Christ. May I be singly focused on following you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

His path is not always easy

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HIGHLIGHT

Acts 21:13 (ESV): 13 Then Paul answered, “What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be imprisoned but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”

EXPLAIN

Paul was on his way back to Jerusalem. Paul definitely felt it was God’s will to go there, to deliver the money gathered to help those in need in Judea. But he also seemed to recognize that suffering lay ahead of him.

Paul and his group stopped at Caesarea for some time. While he was there, a prophet named Agabus prophesied that the Jews in Jerusalem would bind Paul and deliver him to the Gentiles.

Upon hearing this, the believers tried to convince Paul not to go. But Paul was determined. He was willing to suffer and even to die for the name of the Lord Jesus.

APPLY

Living in the center of God’s will does not necessarily mean “success”, an easy life, the favor of those around you, and security.

Sometimes, God’s will means definite suffering, even death. We should not seek to find another way. Rather, we should continue to follow faithfully the way Christ has set before us.

RESPOND

Heavenly Father, help me to live faithfully for you, following you closely, regardless of where the path may take me. May I confidently, passionately share the Good News with others regardless of hardship that awaits. Amen.