by Kala Loptien

Goal-Setting and Straining

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this Sound Cloud link.

We stand at the base of 2024. Day two of a new year, with so much ahead. There’s something refreshing and exciting, yet mysterious and slightly overwhelming about the beginning. What changes will we make? How long can we keep said changes? Also…how long will it take us to write the correct date?

We begin a new climb–hoping to leave certain things behind, while at the same time, holding tightly to others. Resolutions and goals are great things; as long as we keep the right perspective. Improving and refining tend to be the key drivers when we consider goal-setting. It’s important to tend to our own, God-given temples; with priority one being the health of our hearts. Yes, cardio-heavy workouts and strength training keep that heart in tip-top shape. But spiritual wellness and wholeness? That’s where it’s at.

When we are aligned with God’s Word and call on our life, that’s when we truly feel the most whole. It’s why Paul helps outline the most imperative goal for our life. In fact, the title within chapter three of Philippians reads: Straining Toward the Goal.

Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But 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.
Philippians 3:13-14 English Standard Version

Within this quick passage, he reminds us to stop letting our previous baggage affect our ability to climb upward, as called and redeemed servants. The enemy wants nothing more than for us to be stuck, to be weighed down and to lose hope. But our good God gives us everything we need: forgiveness, freedom, faith and a future. Every morning when we rise, Lord, help us first fix our eyes on You in 2024. Amen.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado