One Trait at a Time: Straining Toward What is Ahead
Wisdom Scripture
Colossians 2:3 (NIV)
“in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”
Wisdom Quote
It [wisdom] was also used to describe mental capacities and skills which had a moral component, the capacity to understand and to do the good. Thus, when Moses delegated some of his authority to newly appointed judges, he chose “wise, understanding, and experienced men” (Dt 1:13).[1]
[1] Elwell, Walter A., and Barry J. Beitzel. “Wisdom, Wisdom Literature.” Baker Encyclopedia of the Bible. 1988: 2149. Print.
Straining Toward What is Ahead
Stretch toward what is ahead of you. Paul writes, “And straining toward what is ahead.” The Greek verb for “strain” vividly pictures a runner stretching for the finish line and exerting himself to his limits.
Olympic Intensity
Have you watched the Summer Olympic Games? I won’t forget seeing Shaunae Miller straining for the finish line to win the 400 meters. The close-ups of the runners reveal their intensity—every muscle and every breath drives them forward.
Like an athlete with every nerve and muscle taut, body thrust forward, and eyes firmly fixed on the goal, posture yourself as a follower of Jesus like a runner: body bent forward, hands outstretched, head facing forward, never giving a backward glance, and eyes fixed on the goal.
Work hard because God is at work in you. Strain forward like a sprinter to win the prize. Refuse to look back or be distracted by past failures or achievements.
Two Teams at Halftime
Avoid being like the 2017 Atlanta Falcons playing the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LI. The Falcons appeared to rest on their first-half achievements after building a commanding lead. Instead, be like the Patriots, who put their first-half failures behind them and, during the second half, strained toward what was ahead.
The Patriots came back to win in overtime, 34–28.
It is all too easy to become complacent at halftime. We know that in Christ, we have the power to keep pressing forward.
Think about classic sports movies where someone does what it takes to reach the goal. Which iconic films come to mind? Rocky and Rudy depict men who seemed to have little chance but worked incredibly hard.
How could amateur Rocky compete against the heavyweight champ? How could little Rudy play football for Notre Dame?
Both men were passionately determined.
Others may have given up on you, but God transforms you as you press on to become like Christ. It takes more than desire—more than simply wanting it. It takes more than beginning well.
It takes prolonged, total determination.
