Called Beyond Status Quo

"All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained." Philippians 3:15-16 TNIV

In verses 13 & 14 we have been instructed by the Lord to forget of what is behind (I would include both negative and positive items - but all Paul included was positive which we usually think are our qualifications to work for Him), and then to strain or stretch forward to what is ahead; to press forward into the purpose (goal) for the prize (embrace of all He intends for us to be and do) for which God has called us to Himself in Christ Jesus. I put in to "Himself" because that is Heavenward. But I realize Heavenward also has other dimensions to it. All for a later time, God permitting.

So now we are instructed to live up to what we have already attained. In other words, do not look back and so step back and fall back, but keep the ground we have already conquered in His love. Do not be misled into starting over and covering the same ole' same ole'. Quite frankly this is a call to be adamant about not accepting "status quo" in our walk in the Lord Jesus. Instead, always pushing forward, always receiving more, always moving into His heart and fullness of Spirit!

There is never a time to let progress in the Spirit-attitude and spirit-life slack in expression. This also cannot be left up to others - no matter who they might be. We have in our world today so very much available in terms of teaching and data available. We need not settle for what we have in any way. However, another teacher or preacher or pastor or movement is not what Paul has in mind. He is urging (do I dare say commanding) us to be very proactive in our personal pursuit of more of Him. Teaching, preaching, writing, movements are all embraces to urge us on, but only our time with Him in prayer and Word will do the job effectively. He must become our primary teacher, preacher, encouragement and movement. That is how we consistently move forward in our revelation of Him.

Life gets rather hum-drum if we just let things be as they are. Never stop in Him. Always move forward even when it doesn't feel like it. Know that in Him, as we rest and enjoy His presence and His Word, we are being propelled forward in Spirit through and in Him. Such is our call and our joy!