Articles
Give Yourself A Break!
Making changes in one’s life can be a daunting task. The damaging effects of sin and the
rigors of the Christian life can seem overwhelming. The apostle Paul sets forth an uplifting
approach to life. Paul gives encouragement to the Philippians by giving some advice we can all
use when we are making a new start or trying to establish new habits in our lives. “Brethren, I
count not myself yet to have laid hold: but one thing I do, forgetting the things which are behind,
and stretching forward to the things which are before, I press on toward the goal unto the prize
of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 3:13-14). This advice has a threefold strategy
for the Christian in making positive changes in our lives.
#1 Recognition: There is the recognition that even in the best of Saints, there is always
room for growth. Paul acknowledged that he had not yet “laid hold”. This reveals that Paul did
not subscribe to the notion that his salvation was so secured that it could never be jeopardized (1
Cor. 9:27). As long as we are in the flesh, we will experience spiritual lapses that break our
hearts. Each day we will strive to master the soul over the body. Until we accept this reality, the
Christian will never know contentment.
#2 Resolution: One must resolve to forget the past and stretch toward the future. While one
technically may not be able to “forget” his past, he may determine that such events will not
cumber his life. Former achievements can never be a substitute for present day service to the
Lord. One must learn to accept God’s wonderful grace and not let former sins keep us chained to
the past. We are encouraged to “stretch forward” and “press on” toward the heavenly prize.
#3 Reward: Finally, the prize. “...I have finished the course, I have kept the faith;
henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous
Judge, shall give to me on that day…” (2 Tim. 4:7-8). Let us never forget why we make changes
from sinful behavior or in improving our discipleship.
~ Wayne Jackson (edited for space)
Christian Courier Newsletter
