Hitting the Target – Christ-Centered Living

As we all know, the center of a target on a dartboard is the point, the center of victory. It can be challenging to attain the center; often, a shot is a way off, or perhaps some shots are getting closer to the target. Learn how to live a Christ-Centered life.

Of course, this is not a lesson on the game of darts but an analogy of how our Christian walk should continually pursue the center target to attain Christ-centered living. To achieve this, one must develop discipline. Think of the center representing your disciplined life in serving the Lord, and the outer rings as reminders to continually work to learn God’s Word and do God’s Word. 

What is Discipline?

Let’s start with some definitions. Seeking the root meaning of a word helps provide clarification. The word discipline in Latin means “to learn through self-control”. Now, I would like to include the definition of the word disciple. The word disciple in Latin means “instruction and training”. Both come from the root “discere”, to learn. Let’s put these two meanings together now; as disciples of Christ in training, we are to grow by learning God’s Word and doing so in a diligent manner, even when we don’t feel like it.

How is Centered Living Accomplished?

Aiming for the center isn’t the pursuit of the perfect walk, for there is no such achievement while here on earth. But seeking a healthy striving and growing desire to please and serve the Lord, will help you achieve the center target consistently. Keep your aim on the center!

To build striving and growth in your walk may involve tackling old habits that may not be helpful in your pursuit of centered living. Or you may need to address thoughts that convince you to compromise. A beneficial exercise is identifying and removing any significant obstacles that may be keeping you from the fullest capacity the Lord has for you. May I suggest, not to only tackle the small issues, you may end up tapering off on the most significant obstacles that need tending; thus, you lose sight of the target.

What Does the Bible Say?

What is centered-living? Colossians 3:17 tells us, we are to do everything, that is, when we speak and when we act, we are to do them in the name of Jesus.

How are we to strive and grow? Philippians 3:13-14 tells us, that we do not need to keep looking behind; we should seek what lies ahead of us and keep our eyes on Jesus.

Do I have to do this on my own? No, not only do we have the Holy Spirit (John 14:26), but also the body of Christ. Seek out encouragers to help in times of struggling. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 tells us we should encourage one another and build up one another.

What are you going to change today to achieve the center target?

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