July 30, 2013 Convinced

Read Philippians 1:25-26 Convinced Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all, for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that in me you may have ample cause to glory in Christ Jesus, because of my coming to you again. HAVE you been debating some issue in your life? Perhaps it is in regard to a job change or maybe you are contemplating volunteering in some work of your community. Perhaps you are considering taking some new steps to grow in your faith. What do you need to do to take the first step? You need to decide and be “convinced of this” next step in your life, don’t you? When you are convinced, you will begin to get out of “neutral” and shift into “Drive” to go forward. It’s time for the new adventure! Paul has settled his mind in regard to an internal spiritual conflict (see July 29 Preference devotion). Now convinced of his purpose he begins to move forward emotionally and spiritually. Even as he is in prison, he looks ahead to a positive future to minister the Gospel to Philippi. Purposefully, Paul is convinced the work at Philippi will bring more glory to Jesus. What’s your emotional and spiritual view of your future? What if you said each day in your heart and even to your spouse or a close friend, “Today I’m going to bring glory to Jesus!” Would you be purposeful and convinced of your life each day? Would your life shift out of neutral and drive forward into a greater relationship with Jesus? Would your life demonstrate Jesus’ gospel truths? Yes. Yes. Yes. Convinced of your purpose, your life would move forward each day toward Jesus, and you would glorify—raise up, honor—his name. A Moment’s Thought: Are you ready for the adventure?