Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stay true to the Lord. I love you and long to see you, dear friends, for you are my joy and the crown I receive for my work.
Philippians 4:1, NLT*
I was reading this verse, and praying for my family, that God would draw each one “truer” to Himself and keep us true to Him. Staying true to an invisible God is hard, if we let our personal time with Him slip. Life and busyness have a way of eroding that time, and without a vibrant, intimate connection with God, our loyalty drifts. We aren’t as faithful – or as faith-filled. We depend less on God and more on ourselves.
As I prayed, I saw something extra: “true” also means focused, fixed on – like our direction is “true” if we’re on the correct course.
This verse calls us to more than loyalty and faithfulness, to be true to God and not turn away or betray Him – although it clearly says that as well. It echoes a repeated theme of Scripture: to keep our eyes on God and keep pressing on to know Him better. He is our Sustainer and Shepherd in the journey, but He is also our goal – and our prize.
Focusing on Him prevents dwelling on the circumstances or on our differences. It gives unity to believers as well as personal balance, growth and faith.
God who is Lord of all, help us to seek You ahead of all else. Amid all the good You’ve given us, help us prize You most and desire You most. Help us to stay true to You. May our lives show others that You’re truly worthy of worship.
∞
Here’s a medley of “Where You Belong” and “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” from the Newsboys’ upcoming album, Hallelujah for the Cross. I knew an older version from the 1990’s Newsboys. Love both. May this one bless you today.
*New Living Translation (NLT) Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.