Pastor Leon’s SOAP: Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer

June 13: 1Kings 13,14; 2Chronicles 12; Philippians 3

Scripture: Philippians (NIV) 3:13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Observation: A runner forgets the starting line and propels himself/herself forward with all their energy toward the finish line where the prize will be awarded to the winner. Every ounce of energy available is used for the purpose of finishing the race. Every other thought for the moment is put out of the mind. During the race the runner is physically and mentally consumed with one desire.

Here Paul reveals his heart’s single desire. Everything has become subservient. There is but one thing for which he now lives. All else is forgotten and left behind. He expends every effort in pushing ahead.
Paul’ goal is to cross the finish line with Jesus completely developed within, even the power of Christ’s resurrection and the fellowship of His suffering. (verse 10)

Application: Too many priorities sometimes confuse me. I am not always sure which one comes first. Like Paul, I need to live my life with one supreme priority. I want Jesus to have control in me and to express Himself through me. Then Jesus sorts out the other priorities and flows through me in loving and serving my family, my church, the bus driving, and the world around me.

Prayer: Lord, clearly your one priority on this earth was doing your Father’s will. Here I read that Paul had one priority also. Lord, you are my one and only priority! My life is yours! Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!