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The Prize of Our High Calling, December 31
I count not myself to have apprehended: but 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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He who would build up a strong, symmetrical character, he who would
be a well-balanced Christian, must give all and do all for Christ.... Paul
did many things. From the time that he gave his allegiance to Christ, his
life was filled with untiring service. From city to city, from country to
country, he journeyed, telling the story of the cross, winning converts
to the gospel, and establishing churches.... At times he worked at his
trade, to earn his daily bread. But in all the busy activities of his life, Paul
never lost sight of one great purpose—to press toward the prize of his
high calling. One aim he kept steadfastly before him—to be faithful to
the One who at the gate of Damascus had revealed Himself to him. From
this aim nothing had power to turn him aside....
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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