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Toward The Mark, July 30
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
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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.
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