If you know Christ, you can remember the moment when He reached out and took hold of you—that moment when you realized that you were a sinner who needed a savior. There is also a "taking hold of" that occurs in our lives, an apprehending or grabbing onto the things of God. This propels us into the life God has for us to live!

When Christ initially takes hold of us, we are forgiven and reconciled to Him by simple faith in the work of the cross. However, to possess all that Christ intends for us to walk in, there is a taking hold of that happens on our part—an effort that is required of us. Not that our own efforts can save us. Hence, Christ is the one who died on the cross to reach out and apprehend our hearts, but a tenacity to hold tightly to the promises of God available to us in Jesus!

Our ability to take hold of God with the same level of devotion that Christ took hold of us equates to an absolute "all-in" devotion to Christ and fulfilling His purpose on earth! When things are comfortable and going well, take hold of Jesus. When things are hard and it would seem easier to go your way, take hold of Jesus!

Hold fast to the word of God and its covenant, and never let it go! Grab on tightly and refuse to let go of the freedom Jesus has provided you to live in! Press on toward the goal to reach the prize for which God has called us heavenward in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14).