I have changed my blog up a little bit.  A new year?  Might as well spice things up a bit.

Also, I have changed the “title” to hopefully accompany my thoughts and conviction about…the Word, life, and ministry.  Lately, I have been really captivated by the Apostle Paul and his desire to “press on.”  To press on to know and experience Christ abundantly, supremely, and gloriously  (Philippians 3; 1 Cor. 9:24-27).  As one finds out through a careful reading of Scripture, this for Paul meant, in many ways, through hardships, trials, and tribulations (2 Cor. 1:3-11; 4:7-18; 12:7-10 to name a few).  However, he lived it up with great joy in his heart (Phil. 1:21).

From the time I was saved and surrendered to ministry I have been captivated by this thought of pressing on.  The longer I serve the Lord Jesus in life and ministry the more clearly this becomes a reality everyday.  Whether it is through personal experience or through counsel offered to others…pressing on is more than a trite expression, but in fact done practically one step at a time.  Jesus gives counsel on this, especially as it is relative to taking things one day at a time, etc. (Matt. 6:34; James 4:13-17).

As I look out at this year I see one prevailing thought and conviction: I must press on.  In the Word.  In Life.  And in Ministry.  It is my hope that I am found faithful at the end.  There are tons of exciting things that I am looking forward to in 2013 and am going to strive to accomplish them, Lord willing.  Some of these things are forthcoming and will explain in more detail at a later date.  Some deal with the Word.  Some deal with ministry.  Some deal with school.  Some deal with running.  I’m excited but know it will take discipline and diligence.

Until I’m done, I press on…