If you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord. (2 Peter 1:8)
Living the Christian life parallels the sport of archery; in both, learning and possessing knowledge alone is not useful until it is applied. An archer, armed with a wealth of technical terms and information, utilizes his training by concentrating on four basic steps. A proper stance, consisting of strong support of the body and mind, is the first. Alignment is key to an effective aim, and an anchor point is critical to release the arrow. Finally, a calm and focused release delivers the arrow on target.
Likewise, Scripture has given us the character qualities vital to living a full and godly life; mastering these is our proper stance in this world. Our alignment, living a holy and godly life, centers us toward our goal, and our anchor point is the Word of God. Paul states in Philippians 3:12 that we are to always be pressing on toward the goal because we are Christ’s. Continued practice is key to hitting the mark.
An archer’s goal, backed by his training, is to hit the target as closely to the center as possible. The Christian’s goal, through training in the Word of God, is to live a life that emulates Christ by being centered on him, controlled by him, and exhibiting his attributes to the world in which we live. This is our target.
Aim true and hit the mark.
Susan Gordon lives in Wadsworth, Ohio, where she enjoys biking, walking, serving as a County Parks volunteer, and making memories with her husband, children, and grandchildren.
© 2023 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
