Basic HTML Version
Toward the Mark, December 13
This one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and
reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the
mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:13, 14
.
Paul did many things. He was a wise teacher. His many letters are full of
instructive lessons setting forth correct principles. He worked with his hands,
for he was a tent-maker, and in this way earned his daily bread.... He carried a
heavy burden for the churches. He strove most earnestly to present their errors
before them, that they might correct them, and not be deceived and led away
from God. He was always seeking to help them in their difficulties; and yet he
declares, “One thing I do.” ... The responsibilities of his life were many, yet he
kept always before him this “one thing.” The constant sense of the presence of
God constrained him to keep his eye ever looking unto Jesus, the Author and
Finisher of his faith
The great purpose that constrained Paul to press forward in the face of
hardship and difficulty should lead every Christian worker to consecrate himself
wholly to God’s service. Worldly attractions will be presented to draw his
attention from the Saviour, but he is to press on toward the goal, showing to the
world, to angels, and to men that the hope of seeing the face of God is worth all
the effort and sacrifice that the attainment of this hope demands
The lowliest disciple of Christ may become an inhabitant of heaven, an heir
of God to an inheritance incorruptible, and that fadeth not away. O that every
one might make choice of the heavenly gift, become an heir of God to that
inheritance whose title is secure from any destroyer, world without end! O,
choose not the world, but choose the better inheritance! Press, urge your way
toward the mark for the prize of your high calling in Christ Jesus
Soon we shall witness the coronation of our King. Those whose lives have
been hidden with Christ, those who on this earth have fought the good fight of
faith, will shine forth with the Redeemer’s glory in the kingdom of God
[354]
24
Letter 135, 1897
.
25
The Acts of the Apostles, 484
.
26
Fundamentals of Christian Education, 235
.
27
Testimonies for the Church 9:287
.
368