Joy RulesNäide

In yesterday’s verses, Paul expressed his strong desire to know and experience Jesus’ suffering, death, and resurrection in his own life. It’s a bold statement, and he follows it with a reminder to maintain focus on what is ahead.

We can endure and persevere when there is something that makes it all worth it in the end. What do you notice in these verses about Paul’s hope for the future?

In verse 14, he describes God, through Jesus, calling to us from the finish line. Can you take a moment to imagine this? How do you react to the idea that Jesus is calling out and cheering you on to endure and finish well?

Practice: What do you hope for? Take a moment to write out or talk to a friend about your hopes for your life – and your hopes for what happens beyond your life on earth.