“I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead” (Philippians 3:10,11 NIV).
Do you periodically set personal goals? I do. I construct a goal, set a time limit and then see if I can accomplish it. Goal setting helps me evaluate whether I am being a good steward of my time. Goal setting keeps me focused, and I feel more in control of my life.
Paul the apostle set goals too. He articulates his goal in Philippians 3:10, 11. He says, “I want to know Christ!”
Paul’s main goal, in a lifetime of labor, was the goal of relationship: the goal of knowing Christ, understanding His power and sharing His pain.
What is your goal? Is it money, power, success, or position? Is a relationship with Christ your first goal? It has not always been mine.
Why should our first goal be relationship? Paul answers this question later in the verse: that he could attain to the resurrection from the dead.
Paul’s goal looked toward the future. He was willing to endure hardship in the present to receive a future reward.
Set your goal on the future. Make a relationship with Christ your priority. Eternal life is a future that lasts forever!
Kimberly Snider is a missionary to the Philippines.
From “Moments for Moms,” a free email subscription.
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