Keeping Focus on What is Important –

 Keep Your Eyes on the Prize

Pastor Calvin Cook –  June 10, 2025

Scripture Focus: Philippians 3:14 (NIV) “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

It seems that one of the big problems facing us in life is distractions. We have many distractions sometimes it is so pressuring that we lose sight of vision and purpose.  The noise of the world confuses us and slows us down, tempting us to give up, or turn back. But Scripture gives us a clear command and encouragement: keep your eyes on the prize.

The Apostle Paul wrote these words while imprisoned, unsure of what would come next. Yet, he remained focused—not on comfort or survival, but on *Christ.  He understood that the goal was not a position, possession, or earthly praise, but the eternal reward found in knowing Jesus, becoming like Him, and finishing the race well.

Jesus came to Earth to redeem and restore.  Jesus had to do this because we were doing a miserable job of doing it on our own.  Father’s will.  Are we in that same way today focusing on the will of God in our lives.

After the resurrection, Jesus just didn’t leave. Jesus continued to show up to teach, bring peace and give a call to go.  At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit was poured out as guide for the journey ahead (Acts 2). Pentecost was not a one-time event—it’s a daily reminder that God has empowered us to keep going, to stay focused, and to live with holy direction.

When feeling lost, remember Pentecost. When hope seems far away, recall that Jesus came and conquered death. When distractions come, fix your eyes once again on the prize—Christ Himself, and the calling He’s placed on your life.