Let's Practice

“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, I Press toward the Mark for the Prize of the High Calling of God in Christ Jesus.” ~ Phil. 3:13-14 

What awesome advice the Spirit God offers us as He speaks through the Apostle Paul there in Phil. 3. As our Message unfolds today we will be admonished to “Practice” Spiritual concepts in our daily living and to “Press” for more Spiritual Activity in our life! We know the age old clique “Practice makes Perfect!” And so it is with God and His Word. If we will “Practice” Biblical things, and adhere to His Holy Word, we will be strengthened and encouraged in our inner man. The cares of this life have a way of forcing us to “Press” for the Prize of the High Calling of God in our life!  It is good to put behind us the difficult steps we have taken and to Practice the Biblical Truths that God has set before us. In this “Practicing,” we quickly learn it requires a “Pressing.”  I often feel Pressed as I go about my day, trying to get everything done that I need to do. And once you desire to push against your flesh, you will note “Practicing” spiritual matters strengthens you for the “Pressing” process.  As we Press for the Mark that God has set for us, we must Practice the Power of His Word, the Power of Prayer and invoke the Presence of the Holy Ghost to guide us. In the New Testament where people pressed toward Jesus, they were met with help, healing, and forgiveness.  Often there were obstacles in their way, but pressing on in the midst of great difficulty, there needs were met.  Be encouraged as the New Year unfolds, practice His way: Embrace the Spirit of Love, Joy, Peace, Longsuffering, Gentleness, Goodness, Faith, Meekness, Temperance: Let us “Practice” together the Fruit of the Spirit of God, and see if He don’t just pour out His Presence and His Blessings upon us! Let us Practice together, His Ways, Loving you, Pastor