I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:14
Following Jesus is difficult. At times, it is excruciatingly painful to be a disciple of Christ. The temptation to give up and live for self is palpable. Hardship should be expected for the true follower of the Savior.
The Apostle Paul endured many hardships as he was led by the Holy Spirit. He endured beatings, false imprisonments, prison, and shipwreck. Ultimately, according to church history, Paul gave His life for Jesus.
Yet, Paul never gave up on Jesus. He was constantly pressing forward and He continually kept his eyes on the prize. Paul did not quit on Jesus because he remembered his calling from the Lord. Historians believe that Paul was in prison when he wrote the letter to the church at Philippi. Even inequity and unfairness did not deter Paul’s desire to be a disciple of the Lord Jesus.
Paul’s example is worthy of emulation. Let us, as present-day followers Christ, have the same attitude as the apostle. We cannot give up or give in to Satan’s schemes to discourage us. Let us commit to following Jesus as long as there is breath in our body.
Christian, keep pressing forward and focus your eyes on the prize. Your future is bright and God is at work around you and within you. Don’t give up on Jesus!
Tony French
mrtonyfrench 