When you look at people that are doing things, something is motivating them. There was a member of the Church I attended in New Jersey that would prepare food every Saturday morning. We would pack up the food and take it to downtown Newark, and feed the homeless. I remember having a conversation with her about this, and her desire was to feed as many people as possible. She felt no one should be without food. This was her motivation for preparing food every Saturday morning. She knew how the Lord had blessed her, and this was her service. In essence this was the calling on her life, and she was faithful to the Lord.  

In Philippians 3:12-16, Paul is sharing with them what motivates him to serve others. The answer is Jesus Christ. What has fascinated Paul from his first encounter with Jesus Christ, and continued to motivate him throughout his life. Jesus Christ saw something in him that he didn’t see in himself, and that was his ability to love people. Prior to Jesus coming into his life, there were limits on how far his love would go. Initially the only people that he would love were fellow Jews. However, from his first encounter with Jesus Christ, the one thing that stood out was the love he felt. During the three days he was blind, he realized how hatred was dominating his life. He was hating and persecuting people that did nothing to him. No matter what he did to them they were not going to compromise their faith. When Jesus Christ gave him a chance to change his ways, he immediately did just that. Causing him to see people differently, and he knew they needed what he had gained in his life. That was Jesus Christ. He also knew, no matter how many people embraced the Gospel. 

There were still more that needed to hear the Gospel. This is why Paul said, “I press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus.” Paul was going to do all he could to impact the lives of those he came in contact with. This was only possible, because he was focused on what’s ahead.  I want you to know the same Jesus Christ that motivated Paul, wants to do the same with you. It’s time for you to embrace the opportunities before you, and stop making excuses. The love the Lord has for you, is what motivated Him to give His all. Think about this, Jesus did not turn away from the opportunity to save you. He did the opposite, He embraced the chance to save the world. Why, because he was focused on what’s ahead. Continue to walk in your blessings!