August 21, 2019 –
Christians, Paul tells us, do not run the race of life aimlessly, not knowing the purpose for which they were created. In his first letter to the believers at Corinth, Paul uses the analogy of an athlete training for a race. Paul wrote, “Do you not know that in a race all runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore, I do not run like a man running aimlessly” (I Corinthians 9:24-26a NIV).
Paul cited the need for hard work, self-denial, and arduous preparation by athletes in training. Also, he emphasized that winning a race requires purpose and discipline.
As Christians, we are running toward a future eternal reward. Think of how the Greek athlete exercised self-control in all things in preparing to win a small wreath of leaves. How much more important is it we persevere to the end of the race. We must set aside all else and remain focused on the eternal, everlasting prize that awaits us—God’s welcome and personal approval.
If we are to realize our spiritual goal—to walk with God—we must have a passionate reason for reaching this aim and perseverance to achieve it. Definite goals are essential, but a strong vision is imperative. Goals provide targets and direction, but, Vision provides an inspiring motive to achieve and accomplish. Vision is more than a big dream or aspiration. It must be your spiritual passion; your deepest spiritual desire; your pearl of great value.
View the Master Spiritual Goal as a desired state that you have not yet achieved. Vision frees and empowers you to make decisions that bring you closer to fulfilling your goal. Vision is a motivator. With clarity, inappropriate actions can be identified and terminated. Vision helps coordinate activities in a remarkably fast and efficient way.
When your heart embraces your goal, you have discovered your Vision.