Read: Philippians 3:12-21
I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. (v. 14)
In third grade, I knew what I wanted to be when I grew up: President of the United States. Needless to say, that was not actually my calling in life! As I got older, discerning my calling became more difficult. What was I supposed to do with my life? Most people struggle with this question. We want to know that we matter and that what we do with our lives has ultimate meaning.
Christians do not need to create a meaning and purpose for their lives. We have already received our calling: to live lives worthy of Jesus Christ. People who do not know the Lord have their sense of worth defined by personal success. Their sense of self is like a leaky balloon which must constantly be re-inflated by achieving or doing something new.
As a Christian, you are free from that rat race. You do not have to create your own sense of value or purpose; it has been purchased by Jesus and given to you by grace. You are not living to make a more profitable widget or get into a great grad school or finally pay off the mortgage. You are living for something much greater: the glory of God. If this does not warm your heart and make you thankful, think about what is holding you back. We are called to live for God’s glory and not our own.
As you pray, thank the Lord for calling you to love and serve him.
About the Author
Jane Olson is a college counselor and high school teacher. She lives in Portland, Oregon with her husband and children.
