What Are You Aiming For?
A Devotional on Philippians 1:9–11
What Are You Aiming For? - Devotional for Philippians 1:9-11
The Simplicity of Archery and the Simplicity of Faith
One of the things that fascinates me about archery is how simple the sport really is. Unlike other hobbies that require lots of equipment, all you need is a bow, arrows, and a target. With those three things, you can step onto the range and start learning.
Our Christian life is much the same. At its core, we don’t need fancy formulas or endless extras. What we need is simple: God’s Word to guide us, faith to keep us steady, and His love as the target we aim for. Paul’s prayer in Philippians 1:9–11 beautifully captures this. He longed for believers to “abound in love,” and he reminded them that every decision, every action, every arrow of their lives should be aimed at the bullseye of God’s love.
Archery Shop - Christian Fellowship
Fellowship: Finding the Right Archery Shop
When someone first tries archery, they don’t just buy a bow online and figure it out on their own. They usually go to a shop, where experts can fit the bow to them, show them how to stand, and help them learn proper technique. That kind of guidance makes all the difference.
The same is true for our faith. We’re not meant to walk with Jesus alone. We need the fellowship of other believers—the church, mentors, Bible study groups—people who help us adjust when our aim drifts and encourage us to keep shooting for the right target. Paul knew this too; his letter to the Philippians was written to a community, not just individuals. Growth in love and discernment happens best when we walk together.
Steady Ground: Our Foundation in Christ
An archer’s foundation matters. Good balance and a strong core keep them steady as they draw back the bow and release the arrow. Without stability, accuracy suffers.
As Christians, our foundation is Christ Himself. If we’re not rooted in Him, our aim wobbles. Prayer, Scripture, and obedience are what strengthen our “spiritual core,” giving us balance when life feels shaky. Paul’s prayer for the Philippians was that their lives would not just be strong for a moment but steady, pure, and blameless until the day of Christ. That kind of stability only comes from building on the solid ground of Jesus.
The Aim: Love That Abounds
In archery, the bullseye is always the goal. Every arrow is released with that target in mind. Paul points us to our bullseye: love that abounds more and more in knowledge and depth of insight.
Notice that Paul didn’t just pray for more love in general—he prayed for love with wisdom. Love that discerns. Love that chooses what is best. Love that results in actions which glorify God. Each arrow we release—our words, choices, and attitudes—should be guided by love that reflects Jesus.
Missing the Mark
The Greek word for sin, hamartia, literally means “to miss the mark.” How fitting that Paul urges us to aim carefully! When we chase selfish ambition, worldly desires, or fear, our arrows miss the target. But when we allow God’s Spirit to guide us, our aim is true. His love not only becomes our target, but also the power behind the bow.
Through Christ, our mistakes don’t define us. He realigns our focus, equips us to grow in discernment, and strengthens us to keep aiming for what is pure, blameless, and fruitful.
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Reflection Questions
What target am I really aiming at right now—God’s love, or something else?
Who in my life helps keep my aim true, like an archery coach or mentor in faith?
How can I strengthen my “spiritual core” this week through prayer, Scripture, or fellowship?
Prayer
Lord, thank You for calling me to aim for what truly matters. Help me fix my eyes on Your love and let every arrow of my life—my words, actions, and decisions—be guided by Your wisdom. Strengthen my foundation in Christ, surround me with faithful mentors, and keep me steady so that I may be pure and fruitful, bringing glory and praise to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
