“Not that I have already obtained this, or am already perfect; but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 3:12-14).
Finding Purpose and Perseverance in Spiritual Journey
In his epistle to the Philippians, Apostle Paul presents an inspiring message of determination and spiritual perseverance. Philippians 3:12-14 captures the essence of Paul’s relentless pursuit of a higher calling. It is a theme that resonates deeply with believers striving to live a life aligned with divine purpose.
Understanding the Context
Philippians 3:12-14 states:
“Not that I have already obtained this, or am already perfect; but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
In these verses, Paul reflects on his own spiritual journey, acknowledging that he has not yet reached the state of perfection. Despite this, he is committed to moving forward, driven by the promise and hope found in Christ.
Pressing Onward: A Call to Persevere
Paul’s declaration, “I press on to make it my own,” is a powerful statement. It shows his determination to pursue his divine calling. This perseverance is not born from a sense of personal accomplishment but from the profound understanding that Christ has claimed him. It is a reminder that the journey toward spiritual fulfillment is ongoing, and believers are called to continually strive towards their heavenly goals.
Forgetting the Past
A significant aspect of Paul’s message is the notion of forgetting what lies behind. In our spiritual journey, it is essential to release past failures, regrets, and accomplishments that may hinder our progress. By letting go of the past, we create space to embrace the future with renewed focus and energy.
Straining Forward
Paul uses the metaphor of straining forward to illustrate the effort required in pursuing one’s spiritual goals. This image conveys the idea of exerting oneself, pushing beyond limits, and maintaining a forward momentum. It is a call to action, urging believers to actively engage in their spiritual growth with dedication and resolve.
The Goal and the Prize
At the heart of this passage is the concept of pressing on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. The goal represents the ultimate destination of our spiritual journey—eternal life and unity with God. The prize is the reward of fulfilling our divine purpose, experiencing the fullness of God’s love and grace.
The Upward Call
Paul’s reference to the upward call emphasizes the transcendence and elevation of our spiritual aspirations. This call is divine and originates from God, inviting believers to ascend to greater spiritual heights. It is an invitation to rise above worldly concerns and focus on the eternal promise.
Applying Paul’s Message to Our Lives
Philippians 3:12-14 offers profound insights that can be applied to our daily lives. Here are a few ways to integrate Paul’s message into our spiritual practice:
· Embrace Humility: Acknowledge that spiritual perfection is an ongoing journey and remain humble in your pursuit of growth.
· Let Go of the Past: Release any past burdens that may impede your progress and focus on the present moment.
· Commit to Perseverance: Engage actively in your spiritual journey with determination and resolve, even when faced with challenges.
· Focus on the Goal: Keep your eyes fixed on the ultimate prize of eternal life and unity with God, allowing it to guide your actions and decisions.
· Answer the Upward Call: Respond to God’s invitation to ascend to greater spiritual heights, prioritizing your divine purpose over worldly distractions.
Conclusion
Paul’s exhortation in Philippians 3:12-14 serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of perseverance, focus, and dedication in our spiritual journey. By pressing toward the mark and striving for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus, we can experience the fullness of God’s love and grace. Let us commit to this path with unwavering faith, embracing the challenges and joys that come with pursuing our divine purpose.
May we all find solace and strength in these verses. Let the light of God’s glory guide us through every darkness we encounter.
The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you. The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”’
Blessings,
Minister A. Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 