“Reaching the Goal”

Tuesday, May 18, 2021

Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended, but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward goal for the prize of the upward call God in Christ Jesus.”  (Philippians 3:13,14) 

Notice that here Paul (vs 14) speaks of the “goal”.  The context clearly identifies the “goal” (vs 7-10).  It is to live as Jesus lived and to walk as he walked.  The goal of emulating the life and character of Jesus is a lifelong process.  It is not attained over night and requires tremendous effort.  In the context Paul provide important helps for getting us closer to the goal.  Consider some of them.

First, do not procrastinate.  We must “reach forward”.   To procrastinate may ultimately result in such stagnation that will cause us to ultimately fall back into old habits. So, we are urged to put the past behind us, to reach forward, and to press on. 

Second, to get closer to the long-term goal, we must focus on the short tem attainments.  We must be patient and take it one day and one step at a time.  It involves a daily mental focus on the immediate task at hand and not getting frustrated when we are not where we want to be.  Spiritual growth comes in small steps.

So don’t delay, but “press on”!  Don’t get discouraged, but persevere!  At the end God promises a wonderful crown!

by George Slover

Share