There’s a trap, I believe, that many disciples could and have fallen into. As one grows in his relationship with the Lord, seeks to know Him, devours His word, develops and matures in his understanding of God’s word, self satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment can take root. This often leads to pious identity and self righteousness. One can easily slip into the notion that they have it figured out. “I know what the bible says. I’m done. I’ve arrived.” 
This type of mindset is extremely destructive. It can lead to feelings of superiority, and snobbery quite honestly. It can lead one to lose his compassion and heart for others. For that matter, one starts to lose his love and zeal for the Lord. After all, if you’ve arrived, you have the answers. What is there to pursue? What is left to drive you? Complacency takes root. What good purpose can you contribute to God’s work? Answer…NONE!
There is an astonishing number of remarkable pastors, authors and scholars, past and present. Over the past year, I have spent some time studying such men. One thing that I have found commonplace with the majority of them is the understanding that they don’t have all the answers. They understood that they will never “arrive” in this life. They will grow and mature, reach levels of greater understanding, draw closer and closer to the Lord, but they will not “arrive” until they ARRIVE. They know that their arrival will occur when they are brought to the glorious home that Jesus prepared for them and are united with their Father in eternity.
If you want to be an effective witness for Jesus, to be effectively used by Him in this life, you must understand that you will most certainly not “arrive” in this life. God has something to teach us, daily. God has change He wants to see in us, daily. In order for God to accomplish that, we have to be prepared for Him to do that. We have to be open to His lessons. We have to humble ourselves, regardless of how far we think we’ve come, and allow Him to do what He has to do for and to us. I’ll give you a for instance. How many times have you read the same passage a second, third, fourth or many more times, and each time God illuminates a new understanding? That never stops, if you will allow it.
God has work for each and every one of us. He wants to create in us a more perfect heart. In order for that to happen, we have to realize that we will always have something to learn. We will always have ways to improve. We will “arrive”, just not here.
Romans 12:5 (NKJV) For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith.
I pray, Heavenly Father, that You would develop in me the humility to understand that I will be a continual work in progress. Help me Father, to recognize the lessons You prepare for me daily. Continue to fan the flame of my heart for You, Lord. Kindle my zeal today, tomorrow and every day until You call me to that glorious home You have prepared for me. I pray this is Jesus Christ’s holy name, Amen. Have a glorious and blessed weekend.
In full pursuit of the Greatest Trophy,
Scott Pace
