But our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. He will transform the body of our humble condition into the likeness of His glorious body, by the power that enables Him to subject everything to Himself.–Philippians 3:20-21
I recently saw my old coach whom I love and respect. He seemed even closer to Christ and his faith more vibrant than the last time I saw him. He is 67 and still desires to be transformed into the likeness of Christ. It gives me great optimism. My coach will never change. For him to change would be to stop moving forward, to stop desiring God. He knows he is on a journey, he knows where his citizenship rests.
Can we grasp how hard it is, and yet how fundamental it is to progress? Our brains, bodies, and even friends resist our transformation. Habit, routine, and a planned agenda give a sense of security. The older we get, the harder change becomes. It is much easier to transplant a sapling than a mature tree.
We should orient our lives so we always progress. Recognize we are on a lifetime development plan. As we walk with God, we’ll understand that He will challenge us in order to transform us. If we put God at the center of our routines, our security will be in the eternal. Our finish line is nothing short of heaven’s gates, and our spiritual training is a lifetime.
1. Have you been challenged lately?
2. Do you have the habit of keeping God the center of your routine?
Romans 5:2-4; Hebrews 10:36
Heavenly Father, help me orient my life so that I will always progress. I don’t want to stop until I’m standing before You in glory. May I desire You more and more in my life each day. Amen.
Devotion from A Sporting Guide to Eternity by Steve Connor. Used by permission.
About the Author:
Steve Connor is married to Michelle and has three children. Steve had a “short and un-illustrious” career in the NFL, has published 10 books, served as a missionary for over 15 years, and is currently director of Sports Outreach International and International Sports Coalition—North America. He was also recently honored with a doctorate at Azusa Pacific University.