Bible Reading: 2 Chro. 4; Phil 3:11-21.
“I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 3:14 (KJV).
God has called every believer to a minimum of three things. Firstly we are called to bear the image of God. Genesis 1:27 (KJV) says: “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.” God expects us to bear his image wherever we go which is why he said to man to be fruitful, multiply, replenish, subdue the earth and have dominion over it (Gen 1:28 KJV).
The next calling is for us to restore the image of God where there is any distortion. Isaiah 49:6 KJV says: “And he said, It is a light thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth.” God has called every believer to restore the people on earth to his image. God is love and he has called us to show love as stated in Matthew 22:37-40 KJV “Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” In this passage, Jesus is telling us how to restore the whole earth back to the image of God. When we love God, we will do only things that He loves.
The third calling has to do with the use of our talents to fulfill his purpose on earth. God has given everyone various gifts for the edification of the body of Christ. Whether you have the gift of a medical doctor, a teacher, an evangelist, a pastor, an accountant, an artist among others, it is to meet the needs of others. How well do you ensure that you do not use your skill to exploit others, rather to support them. And it is important that you do not bury your talent as enjoined in 1 Corinthians 7:20 (KJV): “Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called.”
This is why Apostle Paul said that he pressed towards achievement of his purpose as given to him by God. Hear him in Philippians 3:14 KJV “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”
Prayer Point: Father, help me to fulfill your purpose for my life in Jesus name.
Brother Biodun Oyapero