Read: Philippians 3:12-21
One thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. (vv. 13-14)
One Sunday after I had preached a sermon, a person in the congregation approached me and said, “Pastor, I know my wife is informing you all about my vices.” I sensed his hurt feelings and distrust of his wife. His wife had never mentioned anything about him, but my words scraped his wound of guilt. He failed to receive my sermon with humble reflection and possible transformation.
If we despise, disrespect, and distrust those who try to help us, then we deprive ourselves of spiritual help. Fellowship is built in the Christian community not only for worship, social networking, and eating good food together, but for being mentored and being transformed in the likeness of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We must remember that we are always under construction.
Listening to others with humility and teachability is important for the construction process to progress. Even when that correction is ill-intended, God can turn it good for us (Gen. 50:20). A true child of God must not react or retaliate but must respond with the peace and joy of the Lord. If we cease to be humble students, we probably have reached a dead end beyond correction. Paul’s instructions in today’s reading are clear: “press on toward the goal” (v. 14).
As you pray, ask God to give you the humble and teachable attitude of Paul and to help you grow in Christ’s likeness daily.
About the Author
Words of Hope’s South Asia Ministry field leader is based in India and works with more than 70 team members sharing the hope of the gospel in more than 20 languages. Because of security concerns, we have chosen not to share his name.
