Apostle Paul, educated at the feet of Gamliel, a persecutor of Christians, transformed after encountering Jesus, knew that goal setting is essential for a successful life. He boldly states his ambition: “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.”
(Phil. 3:13–14). What was his goal? Paul states: “I want to know Christ, the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead” (Phil. 3:10–11). Paul’s goal was twofold: to know Jesus Christ and become like Him. While we press toward Christlikeness, we will be like Jesus when he returns, and if that is our goal, then we live pure life as Jesus is pure. ( 1 John 3:2-3). Is purity of life our goal? Purity involves separation from sin, not isolation from the world.
Jesus showed his purity in love and compassionate service, healing the sick, feeding the hungry, delivering people from evil spirits, and teaching them God’s word. Top Down Compassion: Jesus, as God incarnate, stooped down to wash his disciples’ feet and set an example for all of us to follow. No wonder the mighty Roman empire could not withstand the love and service of Jesus’ followers and in a span of three centuries worshipped the risen Christ as Lord and Saviour.
We need to embrace self-compassion and self-forgiveness: Forgiveness certainly has transformative power. While godly sorrow is essential regret can scar your life. You might find obstacles and resistance in forgiving yourself. Some people even in their old age regret the wrong road turns they took; broken relationships that are still unrepaired; hostile offspring who blamed their parents for their own failures. Learn to forgive yourself. Your goal of Christlikeness will be hindered if your past pulls you down.