The Power of A Focused Effort

“Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one think 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)

The Apostle Paul knew and exemplified the power of a focused effort. In chapter three of Philippians he recounted some of his background and accomplishments as a Pharisee. Then he makes the statement, “But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.” His focus became winning Christ, being found in Him and knowing Him. Therefore he was willing to forget those things which were behind and move forward in a powerful, concentrated, and focused effort to answer the high calling of God and receive the attending prize.

The power of his focus was so great that he was willing to give his life for the cause of Christ. When they besought him not to go up to Jerusalem because of the dangers that awaited him, his response was, “What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? For I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” Acts 21(13)

His was indeed a true, sincere, and dedicated focus for the glory of God. Thus we read the words of victory in II Timothy 4(6-8); “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

As we exercise a focused effort in our various labors for the Lord we will reap the positive results. The outcome of a hit and miss approach will very possibly be more misses than hits. The recommended and wise approach is to set our goals according to God’s word and will for our life, and then move forward in faith and obedience for His glory. The results will be rewarding and enduring.