Knowing Him

Phil. 3:10

That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like Him in His death, that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead. 

Now I see the positive side of Paul's commitment. Previously, it was to count all things as rubbish for the surpassing worth of knowing Jesus Christ. He was ridding himself of the world but in these verses he clearly stated his spiritual goals. First, he  was to press on to make the goal his own since Jesus had made him His own. This was his total focus, but he knew he hadn't accomplished it yet. Even with the unwavering commitment and singleness of focus, he knew he must grow even more! His sanctification was an ongoing process. Just think how it would be to think and live like you hadn't arrived, like you must ever be learning and growing in Christ. [This is the way that all believers must live.] 

Secondly, He was going to forget what was behind [regrets, hurts, and failures] and strain forward to what was ahead [which is exactly how I should live]. What was ahead for Paul? The prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. How glorious! What comes to mind for me is the throne room of God in Rev. 5:9-14. Just to be a part of the worship of the Lamb is a glorious hope. Why? Because our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like His glorious body, by the power that enables Him even to subject all things to Himself. This is our motivation as well as our hope. We want to know Him, the power of His resurrection, sharing in His sufferings and becoming like Him in death.

Father,

These verses are so strong and exciting. I want to be there worshiping and praising the Lamb. Give me strength to stand and grace to grow so that I will be straining forward for this prize.

In His name,

Amen