What obstacles hinder you from pressing toward your spiritual goals? Pressing Toward the Prize Philippians 3:14 — “I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus.” Obstacles That Trip Our Forward Stride • Lingering guilt over forgiven sin – Hebrews 12:1 calls us to “lay aside every weight.” – 1 John 1:9 assures complete cleansing; carrying guilt is needless baggage. • Worldly distractions and cares – 2 Timothy 2:4: a soldier avoids “civilian affairs.” – Mark 4:18-19: worries, wealth, and desires choke growth. • Spiritual complacency and comfort – Revelation 3:16 warns against lukewarmness. – Proverbs 6:10-11 links sloth with loss. • Fear of opposition or failure – Joshua 1:9 commands courage because the Lord is with us. – Hebrews 10:35-36 urges confidence and endurance. • Unhealthy nostalgia for past successes or failures – Philippians 3:13 presses us to forget what is behind. – Luke 9:62: looking back makes one unfit for the kingdom. • False teaching and distorted priorities – Galatians 5:7-9: “Who hindered you from obeying the truth?” – 2 Peter 2:1 warns of destructive heresies. • Discouragement from trials and suffering – James 1:2-4 frames trials as faith-refining. – 2 Corinthians 4:8-9: pressed but not crushed. • Lack of disciplined habits – 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 pictures the self-controlled runner. – 1 Timothy 4:7-8 calls us to “train yourself for godliness.” • Poor companionship and influences – 1 Corinthians 15:33: “Bad company corrupts good character.” – Psalm 1:1-3 blesses those who avoid ungodly counsel. Taking the Next Step Spot the obstacles slowing your stride, replace them with the truths above, and keep pressing until the prize is in view. |
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