“…one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:13-14

I don’t run… and never have. I tried it as a kid, didn’t like it and decided to not press the subject. If someone was chasing me down with a knife, I’d rather chance on standing and fighting… even though my knife skills are as bad as my running ones. Today’s verse has Paul using a runner to encourage us to ‘strive’ and ‘press on’ toward ‘THE’ prize that Jesus Christ wants us to have. I know how to ‘Press On!’

It’s been a week of ‘pressing on’ for me… which is not unusual. Having a ‘love-hate’ relationship with my vocation, it is usually a joy to be in the business of ‘Cheer-leading God’s Saints along life’s road.’ God puts people in front of me who have been called by Him to ‘run’, ‘strive’ and ‘press on’ toward a particular goal HE has in mind for THEM. MY call is in the position of an encouraging teacher for Him.

Lately I have had the honor of encouraging quite a few saints at the same time. These special sheep are individuals facing very different life circumstances. Several sheep are looking for health improvement. A couple others are being led into vocation changes. Some are just looking for the strength to continue with Joy. But ALL have shared their needs, and I put their names on a sign!

My daughters were beautiful and talented cheerleaders in High School. So I know a thing or 2 about cheerleading. In pressing on through life, it helps to see your name on a sign and other folks calling out your name with encouragement. Giving God’s instructions and holding them up to Him helps during the running process. “GO GO GO!” from the crowd invigorates the runner to keep for the win!

I like being a cheerleader for Jesus. If you are reading this, you can actually help me out! WOUld you help me shout out some names toward heaven to encourage these runners to keep going with joy and look to Jesus for the prize? Please pray for Heather and Rob, Galen and Paula, Amy and Elia, Ian and Ryan! You don’t need to know the details of their race. Just hollering to ‘The Master’ will do!

Thank you