Devotional

The Want

Ready 

More than that, I also consider everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. Because of Him I have suffered the loss of all things and consider them filth, so that I may gain Christ.–Philippians 3:8

 

Set 

Athletes desire great things. This desire drives them to compete, pursue, and strive toward their ultimate goal for the season. I call this the “want” to achieve. The trouble comes in a team sport when the “wants” of different athletes don’t match. The goal of a coach is to get the entire team to “want” the same thing and strive toward that end.

Paul had quite a resume in life. He was a who’s who of people of his time, but his desire or “want” in life was much different than others of his day. All the accolades others aspired to, Paul did not want. He was focused on one area only: the desire to know Jesus Christ better each day.

What outcome do we want for our season? What is our greatest desire? Paul did not let his circumstance, the people around him, or his uncertain future stand in the way of making Jesus his priority. Whether in chains or in public, Paul daily shared his desire with others and prayed that they too would pursue Christ as Savior and Lord. Our “wants” can be powerful. Do we truly know what we want in life? Paul knew, and his focus did not waver. Let’s make sure our desire is God’s desire!
 

Go 

1. What is it you want out of your sport?
2. Do your desires conflict with God’s desires for your life?
3. Today, how can you pursue knowing Jesus Christ with all that you are?
 

Workout 

Psalm 73:25; Proverbs 11:23; Philippians 1:23
 

Overtime 

Heavenly Father, forgive me for pursuing desires that might not fall within Your will for my life. Teach me Your ways and help me desire what You desire. I want to be focused on You and live for You alone. Amen.

Bible Reference: 
Philippians 3
Ministry