Pressing On: Pursuing the Prize in Philippians 3:14

Have you ever felt like you’re just spinning your wheels, not really making much progress in your faith walk? Or maybe you’ve become complacent in your spiritual life, settling for mediocrity instead of seeking growth and transformation. It’s easy to lose sight of the ultimate goal – the communion and intimate relationship with Christ. But God calls us to something far greater. He calls us to press on, to pursue His heart with passion and determination.

Our journey of faith isn’t a sprint, but a marathon. It requires endurance, perseverance, and a steadfast focus on the prize. So let’s explore this precious truth together, taking a deep and practical dive into one of Apostle Paul’s powerful declarations in Philippians 3:14.

Bible Verse

“I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 3:14 (ESV)

Meaning

The Apostle Paul penned the book of Philippians while in prison, yet he speaks of joy, perseverance, and optimism. In Philippians 3:14, Paul uses vivid metaphoric language to describe his spiritual pursuit. He ‘presses on’, that is, he endeavors with unwavering determination and focus, like an athlete in a race.

The ‘goal’ that Paul refers to isn’t something temporal or worldly but the ultimate prize of eternal life in Christ Jesus. This ‘upward call of God’ signifies our divine invitation to a relationship of intimate communion with Him. We should also appreciate how this verse underlines the effort required. It’s an active ongoing process; a dedicated, persistent pursuit of Christ.

This very verse implores us to rise above complacency, to shake off discouragement and distractions. Instead, we must constantly aim for the heavenly reward that outshines all temporary troubles or worldly enticements.

Actions to Take

• Adopt a daily Bible reading habit to keep your focus on the ultimate prize.
• Stay connected to a Christian community for accountability and encouragement.
• Find practical ways to express your faith, such as through acts of service, compassion, and kindness.
• In moments of discouragement, remember the ‘goal’ – the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
• Consider embracing spiritual disciplines like fasting to press deeper into God.

Journal Prompts

• What does the ‘upward call of God’ mean to you personally?
• How can you ‘press on’ more diligently in your Christian walk?
• In what aspects of your faith journey have you become complacent? How can you reinvigorate them?
• How have you experienced the joy and reward of pursuing a closer relationship with Christ?
• What practical steps can you take to keep your focus on the ‘prize’ when distractions arise?

Prayer

Dear God, thank You for the upward call in Christ Jesus. Help me to press on, even when the journey gets tough, keeping my eyes fixed on the prize. Grant me the courage to rise above complacency and fear. Fill me with a desire for more of You, and let Your Spirit guide me each step of the way. Amen.

Conclusion

Our journey with Christ is a relentless pursuit, not a complacent stroll. It needs perseverance, focus, and a yearning to press on towards the goal. The prize – a deeper, more intimate relationship with our Savior – is worth every effort, every sacrifice. So, keep pressing on, keep seeking, keep running the race set before you.