But I (Paul) do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. (ESV)
At times, life feels like an obstacle course.
Luke the writer of Acts wrote about Paul speaking with the elders of the local church where he identified his purpose with them and mentioned the many trials and obstacles he had overcame and the many that still awaits him in the future. You and I are no different than Paul in regard to facing the challenges of life.
As a believer and follower of Jesus Christ, our intentional purpose is to serve HIM and HIS Kingdom. Whatever life throws our way either temporarily prevents one from moving forward or propels one to fulfill their purpose.
Without purpose, life is a happen chance and we simply go with the flow of the moment. With purpose and aim, this same unplanned event may prevent us from moving toward our intentional mission. The same situation and circumstance have different perspectives depending on one’s course laid out for them. Which is why, more days than not, I say life resembles an obstacle course to overcome.
Life is an obstacle course because everyday events and circumstances are pivot points either bringing you closer to God and strengthening your character and faith in HIM or to awaken you from your spiritual stupor.
Life is an obstacle course because when pain and suffering occur, one either leans more on HIM and your relationship with HIM becomes more intimate and deeper, or further distances you from being aware of HIS presence.
Life is an obstacle course because constant distractions take your mind away from your purpose as your human nature seeks the easy and quick solution without concern for the long-term consequences.
Life is an obstacle course because the culture bombards you with emotional appeals to satisfy your every desire without considering the cost.
Life is an obstacle course because constant short-term pain for long-term gain becomes tiring without needed rest and refreshment from the Spirit.
Life is an obstacle course because lies, doubts, and personal inadequacies keeps one constantly seeking the truth of a matter.
Life is an obstacle course because managing the personal relationships between one’s body-soul-spirit with others is a constant exercise of wisdom to balance individual freedoms with community peace.
You could list more that impacts your life and the course you have chosen.
Yet, I am grateful and thankful through all the challenges and opportunities which come our way. Why? Because we have a faithful and committed God who has an eternal purpose in mind for you and me. Every obstacle and every situation are times for HIM to reconstruct and build a new you. The you HE plans to bring with HIM in HIS eternal Kingdom as HE prepares you and I for good work now and in the new age to come.
So, this is why I believe each obstacle that comes our way is simply another opportunity for us to learn more about HIM and HIM preparing you and me to better serve others.
Rooting For You in Christ!
Dr. Mike
Encourager & Author of e-Books
* Dancing With God: Life-Giving Theology Explained
* Great Business Emulates a Good God
* Be Radical…Follow Christ!
* Simply The Messenger
* Unequally Married
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