Insights from ‘The Champion Within’ (by Jeffrey W. Lyon)

Are we there yet? … Are we there yet?? If you’ve ever been on a long trip with kiddos in the back seat, you’ve likely heard this question on numerous occasions. For me, it brings to mind the annual ski trip to Angel Fire I so enjoyed with my daughters as they were growing up. Regardless of how many times I responded to their inquiry as to the time remaining to reach our destination, it always seemed to them ‘a long way off.’

Unfortunately, society in general conditions us in such a way that when we want something, we should have it right now! While oatmeal, drive-thru french fries, or microwave popcorn may be ‘instant’ however, the believer’s journey toward perfection in Christ is a necessary process that takes time. There are no short cuts available. It’s vital to recognize that during this process, the reality of ‘where we are’ in our war against imperfection is not ultimately ‘where we will be’!

This principle is wonderfully illustrated in the story of the prodigal son, as we read in Luke 15:20: “But while he was still ‘a long way off’, his father saw him and felt compassion for him, and ran and embraced him.” All that was necessary for the son to be received (legally) took place as he turned his heart back toward his father, but the journey from the pigpen to the palace (experientially) took a bit of time. The prince was in need of a royal bath! …. (otherwise known as sanctification)

The apostle Paul exhorts us in Philippians 1:6 …. “For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began (author) a good work in you will perfect (finisher) it until the day of Christ Jesus.” It is this ‘refining process’ often filled with pain, frustration, and disappointment that develops within us authentic change …. change required of us for service in the courts of the King.

Feeling ‘a long way off’? We all have at times …. and yet it is during such times that our resolve to relentlessly pursue Kingdom righteousness makes all the difference. Paul put it this way in Philippians 3:12: ” Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus.”

Whether you hear it or not, the sound continues to ring true. …it’s the sound of a Father’s footsteps running toward you, graciously transitioning you to the place He would have you to be. May ‘The Champion Within’ you be encouraged today as you abide in this promise …

~ “Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass.” – I Thessalonians 5:24 ~

~ “The kingdom of the world has become the Kingdom of our Lord, and of His Christ; and He shall reign forever and ever.” – Revelation 11:15 ~