Spiritual goals call for spiritual training.
Soldiers, athletes, and farmers all sacrifice much for great gain. Their goals keep them accountable in daily life (i.e. skill training, not to eat junk food or to get up early to milk cows). v. 3-7 What spiritual goals and activities call us to a similar standard of sacrifice, training and accountability?
The problem is we have defined the Christian life with moral or ethical objectives. Frankly, this is not enough to call out the inner discipline and sacrifice needed to be an advancing disciple. We lack spiritual, missional, kingdom goals in our live that would drive our disciplines.
Paul here is abandoned to the Good News, to the point of gladly enduring chains to reach his goal (v. 9) When I live the kingdom and have spiritual agendas in my life, my spiritual discipline and pursuit soars. God give us each kingdom goals, may take risks that will require training.
Lord God, lead us into... discipling a friend, leading a small group, serving the poor, representing justice to the authorities, sharing the good news with people God has brought into our lives. Invite us into gruelling training to reach these objectives. Amen.
Created about 2 years ago
