“[B]ecause I hear of your love and of the faith that you have toward the Lord Jesus and for all the saints, and I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective for the full knowledge of every good thing that is in us for the sake of Christ” (Philemon 1:5-6).
There is maturity in faith. There is growth that continues even after we reach the place of knowing that Christ is our Savior. Do not think that you are done when you have only reached the first step. Come into the fullness of Christ in order that you may see the effect of the full knowledge of every good thing that is for the sake of Christ. Do not settle for status quo until the Lord tells you, “well done, good and faithful servant.”
You know where I am Lord and how far I need to continue today so that I may progress on the journey of becoming like You. Help me to not be distracted by worldly things but come fully into Your purpose and presence. This faith we have needs nurturing and tending and that is why Scripture needs to be studied daily. You know that, too often, I think myself exempt from these things.
Lord Jesus, in You alone is all hope and an eternal future. Guide me, Lord, so that I may be led by You and not by my own whims, or the fancies of others, let alone the wickedness of this age. Help me, Lord, to understand that in You alone is all hope. Grow in me Your wisdom and maturity in order that I may become more and more like You in all things. Aid me in running so I win the prize by keeping my eyes upon You, Lord, Amen.