In what ways can you "press on" toward your God-given goals today? Focus Verse “Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have laid hold of it. But one thing I do: forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus.” Press On: The Picture Paul Paints - The Greek word for “press on” (diōkō) pictures a runner driving hard for the finish tape. - It carries ideas of pursuit, determination, and sustained effort, not casual interest. - Paul’s goal is Christlikeness and the reward God has prepared (v. 14). Lay Aside Yesterday’s Weight Hebrews 12:1: “Let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us.” Practical steps: - Release forgiven sin—God “remembers it no more” (Isaiah 43:25). - Refuse the paralysis of regret; learn and move on (Psalm 103:12). - Don’t live on yesterday’s victories; fresh obedience is needed today (Lamentations 3:22-23). Reach Forward With Disciplined Habits 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 shows the athlete’s strict training. Press on by: - Daily Scripture intake—“Your word is a lamp to my feet” (Psalm 119:105). - Consistent prayer—“Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). - Regular fellowship—“Stir one another up to love and good works” (Hebrews 10:24-25). - Intentional obedience—apply truth as soon as God reveals it (John 13:17). Fix Your Eyes on the Finish Line—Christ Himself Hebrews 12:2: “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.” - He is the pattern: humble, faithful, resolute (Philippians 2:5-8). - He is the prize: “to be with Christ is far better” (Philippians 1:23). - He is the power source: “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13). Practical Ways to Press On Today - Begin the morning by surrendering your schedule to God. - Memorize one verse that speaks to your current challenge. - Choose a specific act of love for someone difficult to serve. - Tackle the hardest task on your list first, doing it “as unto the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). - Replace negative self-talk with truth from Scripture. - Pause midday to thank God for progress and realign if distracted. - End the day with gratitude and a brief look at tomorrow’s step. Fuel Your Perseverance With Scripture - Philippians 1:6—God will finish what He started. - Isaiah 40:31—waiting on the Lord renews strength. - Galatians 6:9—keep sowing; harvest is coming. - 2 Timothy 4:7-8—Paul’s testimony proves the race can be finished well. Encouragement for the Journey God has set the course, supplied the strength, and reserved the crown. Today, forget what lies behind, stretch forward, and keep your stride fixed on Christ—press on. |
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