Both of these verses give a picture that there are two paths - one which comes naturally and easily and can entangle or enslave us. A second, which we are made capable of choosing in Christ, which requires effort on our part - standing firm, running the race. So every follower of Christ, regardless of what passions He has put on your heart or gifts He has given you, is called out of the normal into something intentional and purposeful. Jesus says in John 10:10, "The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly."
This Uncommon Journey is about more than what we experience all around us. It is more than what the world offers us. It is more than what come naturally to us. It is intentional living a life more abundantly than what we could ever find in our own power. But to experience this life is more than just setting lofty goals or congratulating each other on new-found freedom. It's even more than breaking free from the bondage of sin and our past baggage that holds us down. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 9: 24-27, " Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize."
Paul sees that living life abundantly happens through self-discipline and an attitude that is pursuing victory. He knows that simply plodding through life is not enough. It is intentional and purposeful living that moves us closer to the life Christ intended us to live. It is through discipline and self control that we can experience the fullness of life and the blessings He wants for us.
So what is common in my life?
- Common is choosing what is easy and comfortable and familiar instead of choosing what is possible through hard work.- Common is eating and drinking what I enjoy, knowing full well it holds me back from what I know is good and healthy.- Common is spreading myself too thin because I hate saying no and I'm afraid of what people will think if I don't join in with what everyone else is doing.- Common is trying to earn my acceptance before God and before others by constantly being busy and trying to produce more.- Common is longing for the destination but dreading the journey.- Common is vision without discipline...
This blog is a catalog of the uncommon journey. The road of effort and work with joy - of discipline and integrity - of pursuing the great instead of embracing the good.
Welcome to the Uncommon Journey.
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