Philippians 3:13-14 says, “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But 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.”

When you are driven by Christ’s Spirit of hope, what you see, what your circumstances look like and what people do or say concerning your relationship with God cannot affect your vision. No matter what constitutes obstacles on your way, you can never be stopped. This is so because a man of vision is always full of faith, humility, modesty and perseverance, which are his essential characteristics.

The transforming power in this promise of hope encourages us to strive toward where and who we desire to be, knowing that we are included in God’s master plan for His creation. When you know where you are going, whatever happens to you midway cannot change your focus. Therefore, let us follow the path of good. Blessed is the man who follows this path, for even in darkness, light shines upon the upright. Such people are strong because they rely upon God for vindication, upholding, provision, refuge and salvation. They persist in doing good, not allowing external pressure to change their conduct. As people of faith, our desire to serve God and do the right thing should be strengthened by the situation that we are facing.

PRAYER: O Holy Spirit, help me to see Your Saving Hand in my situation, in Jesus’ name! Amen!