In our chapel class this week we have been talking about goals and challenges and how God can equip us and empower us to reach the goals and plans He has for us. There are lots of good quotes which encourage us to work toward our goals and execute on our plans. I like this reminder from Martin Luther King, Jr. which says, “You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” Sometimes the goals we set, the plans we make, and the hills we need to climb seem so big and challenging we may find ourselves hesitant to even get started. Faced with such goals and challenges, it is important to just take that first step. And then take the next one and the next. You’ll be amazed at where perseverance will take you. I think this the perspective Paul had in regard to sanctification and conforming to the image of Christ. Paul writes to the church:

Philippians 4:13 Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

Conforming to the image of Christ, living in a way that honors God and points others to Him through our words and deeds is our goal as Christians. And it can be a big hill to climb. It can be challenging, but don’t let the challenge keep you from moving forward. For although it is challenging, it is rewarding. Take the first step. Invite Christ into your life as Lord and Savior. And after taking the first step, take the next. And then take the next. Press on. God will always help us to do whatever He asks us to do.