Life is an unpredictable journey filled with so many twists and turns, often presenting us with opportunities that shape our future. Some of these opportunities we excitedly embrace, leading to memorable experiences while others slip through our fingers like grains of sand. Although these missed opportunities can be disappointing, it can play an essential role in our personal and spiritual growth and development. We can learn to use these experiences as steppingstones towards a more resilient and fulfilling life.
The Sting of Missed Opportunities
It’s natural to feel a sense of regret or disappointment when we look back and realize that the chances we didn’t take or the paths we didn’t follow. We often wonder about the “what ifs” or the “could a” “would a” “should a.” It’s not healthy to deal on regrets and it can become an emotional burden that hinders us from fully living in the present.
For a wide door for effective service has opened to me, and there are many adversaries.
1 Corth 16:9
It’s often said that when one door closed, another one opens. Missed opportunities can be a blessing in disguise, redirecting us towards paths we might not have considered otherwise. Perhaps that missed job opportunity led you to discover a passion for a different career, or that failed relationship helped you recognize the importance of self-love.
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not to your own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy path.
Prov 3:5-6
From Setback to Setup
Our experiences, both negative and positive, shape our character and help us learn valuable lessons. Embracing missed opportunities as opportunities for growth can empower us to adapt and evolve in the face of adversity.
Therefore, be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise.
Eph 5:15
Every missed opportunity has a lesson to offer. Reflecting on why an opportunity slipped through your grasp can provide valuable insights into your strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations. Use these reflections to refine your goals and better prepare for future opportunities.
Remember, every successful person has faced failures and missed opportunities. It is how they responded to those setbacks that set them apart. Acknowledge your mistakes, learn from them, and strive to do better.
Building Resilience Through Adversity
Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks, to stand tall after facing adversity. Embracing missed opportunities can be an instrumental step in cultivating resilience. It teaches us that life is full of ups and downs, but we have the power to persevere, change our circumstances and grow stronger from our experiences.
By developing resilience, we become more adaptable and better equip to handle life’s challenges. We also have the ability to become creative problem-solvers.
Seizing the Moment
As we embrace the concept of missed opportunities, it’s essential not to dwell in regret but to maintain an open mind and heart for future chances. Every new day brings fresh opportunities, and the key is to be proactive and ready to seize them.
Cultivate a growth mindset, focusing on continuous improvement rather than perfection. Seek new experiences, set challenging goals and be open to taking calculated risks. Remember, some of life’s most extraordinary opportunities may arise from the most unexpected places.
Missed opportunities are an integral part of the human experience. While it’s natural to feel disappointed, it’s vital to shift our perspective and recognize the hidden potential within each setback. Embrace these missed opportunities as a valuable learning experience that contributes to your personal and spiritual growth.
Stepping Stones to the Unknown
By accepting things that you can’t change and the unexpected uncertainty that life presents, finding strength to accept the reality of life and maintaining an open mindset, you can transform missed opportunities to steppingstones towards a more enriched and fulfilling life. Remember, the journey of self-discovery and growth is ongoing and forever changing, and the most profound moments of revelation often arise from the unexpected detours of life. So, embrace missed opportunities, for they hold the keys to unlocking your true potential.
How do you handle setbacks or missed opportunities? Share a tip or life lesson below on how you overcame the challenge.
Just in case you missed it, there is a free PDF download “Under the Resource tab” a Bible study guide “Anchored with Hope.” I hope it will be a source of encouragement for you in these challenging times.
Related Scriptures
Prov 16:9
9 A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.
James 1:2-5
Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you fall into divers temptations knowing that they trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
Eccl 9:10
10 Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.
Isaiah 41:10
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Psalm 121:1-4
I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.3 He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. 4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.
Psalm 32:8
8 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with My eye.
Psalm 37:23-25
23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way. 24 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand. 25 I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.
Rom 8:28
28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
Let your Kingdom come and let your will be done as it is done on earth as it is done in heaven.”
When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesare a Phillipi, he asked his disciples, saying, “Whom do you say that I the son of man am? And Simon Peter answered and said, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the Living God. And Jesus said unto him, “Blessed art thou Simon Barjona; for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in Heaven.”
The Lord desires for us to know Him by His Spirit and by faith. He wants us to learn his true nature, character and identity. We can only learn of him through reading the scriptures and developing a relationship with Him through prayer and worship. We cannot afford to be misled by false doctrines.
The Body of Christ is positioned to be a witness for Christ and to build, edify, and lead others to Christ. We have no more time to waste. This world is moving fast and things are rapidly changing and shifting.
The Lord will administer and appoint the servants who truly know and understand Kingdom principles and walk according to His commandments and laws. If you are walking in His authority, He will release divine instructions, blueprints, and visions of His plans and purposes.
The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain. 1 Corth 3:20
We can rest assured that no plot, scheme or plan of the devil will stop or block the power of God.
In Matthew 16:18, Jesus said, “Upon this rock I will build my church; and the “gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
The access to the Kingdom will be given to the faithful servants with additional responsibilities and position with due diligence, discernment and wisdom.
Power and authority comes from the Lord and not from the works of our hands. Within each day, we should reference the Lord with Thanksgiving and praise.
Intercession of the Saints
In the Book of Nehemiah, the remnant were greatly afflicted and the walls of Jerusalem was broken down and was on fire. Neh 1:3 It was similar to the world we live in today.
Nehemiah’s position, as a cup bearer, served the King. Nehemiah was very sorrowful after he heard what had happened in Jerusalem. He prayed for the children of Israel thy servants, repented and interceded for their sins.
6 Let thine ear now be attentive, and thine eyes open, that thou mayest hear the prayer of thy servant, which I praybefore thee now, day and night, for the children of Israel thy servants, and confess the sins of the children of Israel, which we have sinned against thee: both I and my father’s house have sinned.
7 We have dealt very corruptly against thee, and have not kept the commandments, nor the statutes, nor the judgments, which thou commandedst thy servant Moses. Neh 1:6-7
He submitted a request to the King to go into Judah to build the city. Nehemiah received favor and the King granted his request.
9 But if ye turn unto me, and keep my commandments, and do them; though there were of you cast out unto the uttermost part of the heaven, yet will I gather them from thence, and will bring them unto the place that I have chosen to set my name there. 10 Now power, and these are thy servants and thy people, whom thou hast redeemed by thy great by thy strong hand.
Neh 1:9-10
15 Ye are blessed of the Lord which made heaven and earth. 16 The heaven, even the heavens, are the Lord’s: but the earth hath he given to the children of men. Psalm 115:15-16
The Kingdom Mandate
All the tools and resources lie within you. The Kingdom mindset operates according to the Spirit. You can’t fake it till you make it. You will not be able to copy or duplicate it. It is divine. It is Holy. It is sacred. It is consecrated unto the Lord. There is no competition, jealousy, envy or striving. There is no such thing as a hustle mindset in the Kingdom.
Having clean hands and a pure heart grants access to dominion and authority in the Kingdom of God.
3 But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;
4 Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.
5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Eph 5:3-5
20I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. Gal 2:20
Kingdom Over Culture
In the last days, false prophets and doctrines will be prevalent. We should be selective of what we choose to watch or listen to. We should choose Kingdom over culture. The church is emulating the world and there’s a fine line between the two. People are compromising to fit into the world to be accepted instead of shining the light of Christ. If Christ wasn’t accepted, you know that you won’t be either. It will take a tough skin, a surrendered heart and a made-up mind to follow Christ throughout life’s high’s and low’s.
There are some Biblical movies and TV shows that are altering or changing the story line of the scriptures all for the sake of entertainment and revenue.
This type of entertainment is only leading people into confusion and false doctrine, especially if they are new to the faith or possibly interested in learning more about the Bible. It’s best to go directly to the source, “The Bible” and also find a spirit-filled church where you can fellowship with other believers.
When you are led by the Spirit, you have the ability to discern the environment. Unfortunately, not every church is teaching sound doctrine. If the teachings are watered-down gospel or half-truth, it’s not the real deal. A half-truth is a lie, so don’t be deceived.
Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, you will continue to grow in understanding. The more you learn of Jesus and develop in the faith you will gain strength and endurance so don’t be discouraged. The Holy Spirit is your teacher and comforter and will lead, protect and guide you into all truth. God’s love and infinite wisdom is everlasting.
Bible Reference
2 Corth 4:4-7
In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.
6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.
“10 Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? The words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works. John 14:10
Neh 2:17-20
17 Then said I unto them, Ye see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lieth waste, and the gates thereof are burned with fire: come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach.
18 Then I told them of the hand of my God which was good upon me; as also the king’s words that he had spoken unto me. And they said, Let us rise up and build. So they strengthened their hands for this good work.
19 But when Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the servant, the Ammonite, and Geshem the Arabian, heard it, they laughed us to scorn, and despised us, and said, What is this thing that ye do? will ye rebel against the king?
20 Then answered I them, and said unto them, The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build: but ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem.
Zech 13:2-4
2 And it shall come to pass in that day, saith the Lord of hosts, that I will cut off the names of the idols out of the land, and they shall no more be remembered: and also I will cause the prophets and the unclean spirit to pass out of the land.
3 And it shall come to pass, that when any shall yet prophesy, then his father and his mother that begat him shall say unto him, Thou shalt not live; for thou speakest lies in the name of the Lord: and his father and his mother that begat him shall thrust him through when he prophesieth.
4 And it shall come to pass in that day, that the prophets shall be ashamed every one of his vision, when he hath prophesied; neither shall they wear a rough garment to deceive:
Mark 11:11-20
11 And Jesus entered into Jerusalem, and into the temple: and when he had looked round about upon all things, and now the eventide was come, he went out unto Bethany with the twelve.
12 And on the morrow, when they were come from Bethany, he was hungry:
13 And seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon: and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet.
14 And Jesus answered and said unto it, No man eat fruit of thee hereafter for ever. And his disciples heard it.
15 And they come to Jerusalem: and Jesus went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves;
16 And would not suffer that any man should carry any vessel through the temple.
17 And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves.
18 And the scribes and chief priests heard it, and sought how they might destroy him: for they feared him, because all the people was astonished at his doctrine.
19 And when even was come, he went out of the city.20 And in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots.
Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ 1 Peter 1:13
Due to the Corona Virus pandemic, many people are wondering what they should be doing during this time of quarantine, social distancing and self-isolation. For many people, it’s a time of heartache, turmoil, chaos, uneasiness and panic but for others it’s a time of rest, purpose, testing and prayer. Many are facing loss of loved ones as well as loss of homes, jobs and social life. The burdens are heavy to carry and fear is prevalent and real.
Not only due we face a global pandemic but lawlessness and violence in our nation, a cycle of natural disasters, economical instability and racial injustice.
The duality of this situation is that we are all dealing with the unknown reality and direction of our future all on levels; economically, socially, personally, and professionally.
During this time, we really need to be prepared for the unexpected, especially since we experienced a taste of the unexpected at the beginning of 2020. We must stay diligent and mindful of our circumstances and environment.
There is much confusion, deception, anger and fear. The enemy’s tactic is too keep your focus on distractions by messing with your emotions.
To gird up your loins means to fight or battle. To run.
This is a season for battle and a time to run with endurance. In this new season, we must use wisdom and discernment to navigate through the difficulties of life.
Heb 12:1
Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us
Unfortunately, many people complained and resisted the lock down period during quarantine. Since they had no knowledge of the spirit, they did not understand that this was an opportunity to be still, rest and draw near to God as well as pray for direction and protection.
Due to their arrogance, pride and disobedience, they gathered at beaches, bars and restaurants despite the health warnings.
Prov 10:8
The wise in heart will receive commandments: but a prating fool shall fall.
In any spiritual fight or battle, you need clarity and divine instructions. You need to be focused and silence all distractions and noise around you. It may be difficult depending on your surroundings but when you develop a relationship with the Lord he provides an unspeakable peace that the world cannot understand.
Prov 10:17
He who keeps instruction is in the way of life, But he who refuses correction goes astray.
In order to win the battle, there are some things you should do to strengthen your spiritual, mental, emotional and physical being.
Abide in Confidence
It may seem odd to rest in a time of battle but you can’t fight a war if you are physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually exhausted, weary and tired. You are not able to think clearly. You are more agitated. The enemy will attack ferociously when you are drained.
The definition to wait means to live in confidence or eager suspense. The Hebrew word “Qavoh” means to wait, look for, hope or expect.
You need physical rest to repair your body but you also need to build your mind and spirit for preparation to battle all the darts of the enemy. It is priority to read and speak the Word of God daily to strengthen your spirit. Faith comes by hearing and by hearing of the Word of God. Rom 10:17 You must not only recite the words but believe them. It’s more than lip service. The Word of God is life and it must be embedded within your heart. Speaking words of doubt or trying to convince yourself that God’s words are true will not work. You must believe by faith and receiving knowledge that God’s words are true.
2 Corth 10:5
Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
The Word of God is a living word. It is life to your bones. The Lord spoke the world into existence and with the same power we can speak blessings or curses into our lives.
Heb 11:6
But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
If you are at a loss as to where to start, you should find scriptures that speak to your situation and attack the enemy with God’s word on a daily basis. To build up your faith, listen to sermons, have conversations with other believers of faith, listen to wise counsel and instruction, put on praise and worship music to elevate your mood.
When you simultaneously implement all of these activities into your daily routine, you will develop faith and strength to move through life despite the obstacles and challenges you face.
2 Theo 1: 11
Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power
Be Led by the Holy Spirit
When you move or visit a new country or even start a new job, you have to observe and study and your new environment. You have to get familiar with the dialect or language, adapt to the food and culture. On a job, you will need to be in compliance with a new set of instructions, rules, policies and procedures to function successfully.
It’s wise to observe the ways of the people and your new environment. It’s a time of training. Be slow to speak. Learn how they function. You simply can’t jump into a new environment and think you know everything even if you are a seasoned professional or have years of experience.
You must walk in humility and not in the flesh. Allow the Holy Spirit to direct your steps. Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit and watch how he will prompt you in how to maneuver in a new atmosphere or climate. The Holy Spirit will teach you what you need to do or how to speak in season.
In any conflict, you will have the wisdom to size up your opponent by keeping a watchful eye and a cool head, as well as by learning their ways on how to handle the situation with wisdom and discernment. Learn the ways of the enemy. The devil is a liar and the master of all confusion.
Pray Without Ceasing
Communication with God is priority to fighting the battle at hand. There is no formal way to pray. Just open your mouth and tell the Lord what you’re going through. Ask questions. Praise His name. Listen to Him speak. Prayer require listening so do not just beg God in times of trouble for your needs or wants to be met. It’s a relationship so seek him in the good times and the bad times. Allow the Holy Spirit to lead you in prayer. He intercedes when we do not know what to say or do. He is the comforter when we are pain and despair.
Walk in Your Power and Authority
When you understand the power of God and trust in Him completely, you will have confidence in his ability to guard, protect, guide, teach and direct you. You have power to command and transform negative situations and outcomes with the power of God that lies within you.
Zech 4:6
It’s not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord.
In the last days, the Body of Christ will experience the full power and anointing of the Spirit of God. However, it will only be for those who have a clean vessel and have purged themselves of all sin and disobedience from their lives. The spirit will not operate in an unholy, sinful person.
Eph 5:1-14
Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma. But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; 4 neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. 5 For [a]this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. 6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7 Therefore do not be partakers with them.
1 Theo 4:7-8
For God did not call us to uncleanness, but in holiness. 8 Therefore he who rejects this does not reject man, but God, who has also given us His Holy Spirit.
Prepare for Battle
Everyone has a different assignment so you can’t follow what you’re neighbor, friend or family is doing. The Lord has called you for a specific task. You have unique, talents, skills, experience and gifts. This society has conditioned people to follow and copy the patterns, strategies and tactics of the world but we are kingdom citizens.
We walk in what the Lord has designed and instructed for us to do. We must be aligned and in tune with the Spirit of God. Be obedient. Listen to His instructions. We have a sphere of influence in specific areas and we must occupy the land that was given to us to glorify and praise his name.
Rom 8:28
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
Put on your war clothes. Suit up warriors! You have been trained in your wilderness season. Rise up, remnant and take your position. Boot camp season is over. Take your authority and Power in Christ and slay the opposition set before you.
Phil 4:13
I can do all things in Christ which strengthens me.
Take Action
Although we are spiritual beings, we live in a natural world. We must be salt and light on the earth. The Lord has a calling and purpose for each person he created. You were designed to give God glory.
Jesus came to save the lost. We are his hands and feet so we must navigate through life demonstrating his love in obedience. We must have courage and strength to dismantle the violent, destructive forces and attacks of the enemy. We must be watchful of the times and seasons, laws and policies being implemented that are not in alignment to God’s laws. We cannot sit back as fearful, lazy Christians and watch the enemy kill, steal and destroy. We must gird up our loins for battle.
Deut 31:6
Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
Walk in the Light
8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light 9 (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), 10 finding out what is acceptable to the Lord. 11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. 12 For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret. 13 But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light. 14 Therefore He says: “Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, And Christ will give you light.” 15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, 16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. 17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. 18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; 19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; 20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; 21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
Execute with Precision
There is a plan or strategy to execute with precision. You must target the root to destroy it. You cannot allow distractions to get in the way.
Jer 1:10
See, I have this day set thee over the nations and over the kingdoms, to root out, and to pull down, and to destroy, and to throw down, to build, and to plant.
Sometimes you will have to stand alone. You have to guard your heart, mind, mouth and ears from evil and deception. You can’t absorb the nature of evil. Be mindful of what you listen to or watch on TV, radio or the internet. The most subtle appearances of evil can corrupt your heart. It will suck your energy and strength. It will cloud you vision. You need razor-sharp focus to diffuse the enemy.
The adversary is the master of all lies. He is a deceiver. He is a thief. He is a manipulator. Don’t allow the devil to whisper words of discouragement or strip you of your authority and power in Christ. Don’t allow the voice of Satan to become louder than the voice of God. The devil is not creative. God is the creator and holds all creation in his hands. Take your position in Christ and decree God’s promises over your life and over your family and friends.
When a boxer enters the ring, he fights by targeting the weakest points of his opponent. He wears him down to the point of exhaustion to win the match. That is the enemy’s tactic and strategy for the saints. The enemy will constantly use the same opposition to come against you.
Walk in your identity in Christ Jesus. Break the lies of fear, doubt, intimidation, opposition, sickness and disease, and resistance. The Lord is our advocate, our mediator, our great high priest and our intercessor. Put on the whole armour of the Lord.
Prov 10:23-25
But a man of understanding has wisdom. 24 The fear of the wicked will come upon him,And the desire of the righteous will be granted.25 When the whirlwind passes by, the wicked is no more,But the righteous has an everlasting foundation.
2 Corth 10:3-6
For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.
You can’t defeat the enemy in your own strength. Who is this King of glory? The Lord is strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle. Psalm 24:8
That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; Eph 4:14
We must elevate our mindsets and not be swayed by the ways of the world with every wind of doctrine. We must run with endurance the race that is set before us.
I say run, run, run, child of God like you have never run before!
Phil 3:14
Phil 3:14
I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
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Related Scriptures:
2 Sam 22:40
For You have armed me with strength for the battle; You have subdued under me those who rose against me.
Isaiah 59:1
Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened, That it cannot save; Nor His ear heavy, That it cannot hear.
Gal 6:9
And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.
James 1:4
But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.
Phil 4:6
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;
Isaiah 61:3
To console those who mourn in Zion, To give them beauty for ashes, The oil of joy for mourning, The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; That they may be called trees of righteousness, The planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.”
Eph 6:14
Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness
Suffering for Right and Wrong
I Pet 3:13-22
13 And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good? 14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. “And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.” 15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; 16 having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed. 17 For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.
Hab 2:3
For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry.
Jer 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.
Phil 3:14
I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
I King 18:46
46 Then the hand of the Lord came upon Elijah; and he girded[a] up his loins and ran ahead of Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel.
Isaiah 40:31
But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.
Job 38:3
Now [a]prepare yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer Me.
Gal 5:16-26
Walking in the Spirit
16 I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, [f]murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 [g]gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24 And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.
Ezk 36:8-12
But you, O mountains of Israel, you shall shoot forth your branches and yield your fruit to My people Israel, for they are about to come. 9 For indeed I am for you, and I will turn to you, and you shall be tilled and sown. 10 I will multiply men upon you, all the house of Israel, all of it; and the cities shall be inhabited and the ruins rebuilt. 11 I will multiply upon you man and beast; and they shall increase and [a]bear young; I will make you inhabited as in former times, and do better for you than at your beginnings. Then you shall know that I am the Lord. 12 Yes, I will cause men to walk on you, My people Israel; they shall take possession of you, and you shall be their inheritance; no more shall you bereave them of children.”
Writing with Purpose 