Live Intentionally……..
Above is a photograph I made some years ago at Arches National Park, this is the silhouette of Dr. Charles Stanley at North Window and Turret Arch, it is one of my favorite images! A huge print of this hangs over Dr. Stanley’s desk in his office. Charles has been a wonderful friend, and a great inspiration to me. Every morning Sherelene and I read his In Touch daily devotional and pray together, this morning I thought this was a wonderful message for all of us, so I am sharing it with you. I hope it blesses and convicts you as much as it did me!
2 Timothy 4:6-8
New Living Translation (NLT)
6 As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. 8 And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.
Paul was a man who lived life to the full. His goals were to know Christ, abide in His power, fellowship in His suffering, and preach the gospel (Phil. 3:10; 1 Cor. 1:17). In doing so, he aligned his aspirations with the Lord’s, diligently worked to fulfill his calling, and persevered through opposition, persecution, and suffering. He could face the end of his life with confidence since he’d “fought the good fight,” “finished the course,” and “kept the faith” (2 Tim. 4:7).
We’d all like to be able to say the same at the end of our lives, but that means we have to follow Paul’s example. How are you doing at setting goals for your life? Have you thought beyond the immediate and set some long-term objectives? Our culture is so fast-paced that few of us take the time to actually consider where we’re going. But you don’t want to finish your life and find out you were on a course other than God’s, fighting the wrong fight, and struggling to keep the faith.
Why not set aside some time this week to get alone with the Lord. Then ask His help in setting goals that will take you where He wants you to go. Consider every area of your life–personal, relational, financial, and vocational–but make spiritual goals your primary emphasis. Then write them down.
If you keep doing what you’re doing, you’ll keep getting what you’re getting. Maybe it’s time to get out of your rut and find a new path. God will help you change direction and accomplish new goals that align with His will. Don’t settle for the mediocrity of an unplanned life. Start living intentionally.
I have committed my life to serving Him, to living with great intnetion, what is your commitment to?
the pilgrim
This entry was posted on Tuesday, June 5th, 2012 at 11:03 am
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Bill,
As I was reading your post, the following statement keep running through my mind. While we are running about capturing God images, allow him to capture us.
Sure will miss the group during this workshop, may God grant all of you safe travel and a special time enjoying his love and your cameras.
Thanks for being a special friend.
Love Dr. Charles Stanley. One of my Christian hero’s. To say there is no God is like going outside and shining a flashlight up in the sky to see if the sun is shining. Paul and the disciples knew the “risen” Christ. So much so that they were willing to suffer martyrs deaths because they “knew” they had seen God in the person of Jesus Christ. Paul referred to his suffering as “momentary inconveniences.” Jesus is the only way to the Father. There is no other name by which one can be saved. I will live that, and preach that to my last breath. I stake my life on it. That’s my commitment.
Great photo! We thank the Lord for Charles and his ministry. May we always pursue the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Bill, the Lord must be trying to tell me something. The message at our service this last week was on the same verse. Joe
Hello Bill!!
Another great post! I took some time and got caught up on the last week’s posts too!! Thanks so much for sharing the truth!!!
Not sure if you remember me or not….we are now in NY as we have had to leave Russia and take a temporary assignment here in the States for our mission. We are needing to be here for our children…so we are praying about what the Lord will have for us in the future. I have enjoyed the lush scenes around us here in NY (compared to the grey buildings of the city in Russia). We have also had some time for day trips…I’ve posted some of that over at my blog http://www.capturedbythelight.net.
I see from your schedule you are very busy…maybe the Lord will allow me to meet you face to face sometime, that would be a thrill!!
Blessings!
Bill, I enjoyed your words today, thank you for allowing God to speak through you! I hope you are enjoying Bodie? I will actually be there on Sunday, God willing!! Take care and God Bless!