But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead,I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:13-14
Why has God put you on this planet?
Ever wondered that? It turns out you are not an accident and God has more than a few things in store for you. As much as we’d love to have all the details, it seems God likes to call us in general directions rather than to certain street addresses for GPS coordinates.
While this idea may be frustrating, as we certainly love to feel like we are in the know as much as possible, we can live with confidence in a couple of things. First, the best is yet to come! As Paul said in Chapter 1, the God who has called us is faithful. He will carry out what he has started to full completion (verse 6). Second, as far as I can tell, we would do well to follow God’s path for our life, because if Paul’s life is any indication, an adventure is in store for sure!
This is what fueled Paul. He dedicated his life to pressing on toward the goal for which God had called him. Why? Because he knew it was why he was born. Take heart when you feel lost or confused or struggling with your purpose. God has something in store for you and when you find it, you’ll know that moving forward leaves no alternative to forgetting what is behind and straining toward what’s ahead.
Questions for reflection:
- What is your actual answer to the question “Why has God put you on this planet?”
- How do your gifts and talents confirm or confuse you in regard to your answer to the previous question?
- What adjustments do you need to make to set sail directly at the reason God has put you on this planet?