The Vineyard- March 9, 2014

The Vineyard

I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. – John 15:5

Philippians 3:12-4:1

Pray for God to speak to you through the reading of His word. 

Read the passage. 

-          Don’t look back, run!

o   We find in this passage Paul using the analogy of running a race when speaking of the Christian faith.  As runners, we can’t dwell on our previous steps, but instead must focus on reaching the finish line.  What missteps or setbacks from your past are you allowing to distract you from the race?

-          Maturity is knowing your imperfection

o   Those who are mature as Christians, realize that there is still much more to be done before we are conformed to the image of Christ.  Can you identify areas where you still need to grow as a Christian?  We all have them, the mark of a mature Christian is recognizing them!

-          What or Who is your god?

o   Paul criticizes those whose god is “their stomach”, referring to them as “enemies of the cross”.  What lusts or passions are calling the shots in your life?

Pray that we will trust in God’s grace for our past, and press ahead in our Christian walk. 

Pray that God will reveal the areas in your life that need work. 

Pray that our passion for Christ will outstrip our passion for all other things.