In High School I was a sprinter in the 70 yard dash. My time was pretty good for a short race, but when it came to long distant running, that was a different story. I was never willing to invest the time and develop the stamina to compete in cross-country races. Spiritual goals, like cross-country racing, require time and stamina. Paul shows us three ways to develop Christian stamina that we might reach spiritual heights. The first is:

Paul would not rest on past experiences or accomplishments. His desire was to focus on Christ alone. He counted all as refuse to gain a greater understanding of the Lord. He knew Jesus alone could give him the strength to meet his goal. Martyred missionary Jim Elliot once wrote: "He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose." Are you willing to put Christ first in all things? The goal in Paul’s life was Jesus, is He yours? The second way to develop in spiritual strength and stamina is a

Actually knowing about Christ and knowing Christ are not one in the same. Paul wanted more than an intellectual understanding. He wanted to actually experience Christ’s resurrection power in his life, and the fellowship of His suffering. He realized the two go hand in hand. It’s been well said, "You can’t appreciate the mountain tops if you haven’t been in the valley." Sometimes our greatest lessons are found in time of trial and suffering. Perhaps you are going through some trial today. Rest assured that Jesus is able to strengthen and keep you regardless of what it is. Only when I am willing to die to self that Christ may live in me can I experience such knowledge. Are you willing? Then Paul mentions a third way to develop. A

The high calling is an upward calling. It is a call to be more like Christ. Paul knew it required effort and he was willing to give it his all. He concentrated on the goal before him not the achievements behind him. He put all his effort in reaching that goal. His desire ‘to be perfect’ or mature is a challenge for us all. God’s standard of perfection is His Son the Lord Jesus Christ. We need to be more like Him everyday.

Here are the guidelines for reaching spiritual heights in our life. A denial of all but Christ, a desire to know Christ and a determination to be more like Christ. While we share these ways, we are fully aware that without God’s grace, all would be impossible. Peter said, "Grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."(2 Pet 3:18). God’s grace will see us through, but we must be willing to allow His grace to work in our lives and develop them to His honor and glory.

High in the Alps is a monument raised in honor of a faithful guide who perished while ascending a peak to rescue a stranded tourist. Inscribed on that memorial stone are these words: HE DIED CLIMBING. Maturing, growing Christians should have the same kind of attitude, right up to the end of this earthly life or the coming of our Lord Jesus to take us to Himself. God bless.