Introduction: Based on our devotion today, we are all involved in a race. Some are on the sidelines either cheering or criticizing, while some are at the starting blocks. Others are running strenuously and are about halfway through the race. Still more are getting closer to the finish line. Where are you?
1. Those in the race and running well! (Philippians 3:15–16) – “Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you. Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing.”
Did you catch the word “perfect”? What does it mean? The word is τέλειος, which has to do with complete, or mature. It can mean full-grown. Would you consider yourself a mature Christian? Obviously, none of us have arrived! If the great man of God, Paul, was still pressing onward, we too are running in the race of holiness. Basically, he is inspired to tell those in Philippi as well as us today to GROW UP!!
2. Those watching the race while criticizing those in the race! (Philippians 3:18–19) – “(For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)”
Who are these? The critics! The lost! The unbelievers! Notice that they are enemies of the cross. In other words, they are in Satan’s camp, controlled by demon forces. This world is their god! Do you know anybody in that condition? Unfortunately, many need Jesus. But come to think of it, isn’t that why we are here? Win them. Witness to them. Engage the enemy. Run the race!
3. Those in the race helping others who are in the race! (Philippians 3:17) – “Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.”
The word “walk” is interesting. It is the word στοιχέω, which means to walk in line, or it can mean to follow. Furthermore, it can mean to conform. Paul seemed to be saying, as he followed Jesus, the believers should follow Jesus; subsequently, they would become role models for other CHRISTians. Are you a good role model? How can we be examples for others? Are there any changes that need to occur?
Conclusion: Where are you in this race? Running? Criticizing? Starting? Finishing? Why not purpose in your heart to follow Jesus closer than ever while pointing people to Him.
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese
