Pressing on Towards the Goal

Pressing on Towards the Goal

My brothers and sisters, our discourse today is rooted in the book of Philippians, chapter 3, verses 12 to 14. Our central theme is: “Pressing on Towards the Goal.” It is an invitation to each one of us to aspire and strive for the Kingdom of God with unwavering focus and relentless pursuit.

Let us take a moment to reflect on the Apostle Paul. He offered himself so wholly, so selflessly, that we might know how to live a life of joy and fulfillment. His entire existence was a testament to the strength of a life centered on Christ, providing us a blueprint of dedication and purpose.

Beloved, our ultimate goal is the Kingdom of God. To reach this lofty aim, we need to cultivate discipline and focus, just like a runner preparing for a race. A runner cannot claim victory unless they discipline their body, sharpen their focus, and keep their eyes fixed firmly on the finish line.

In our spiritual journey, we must mirror this athlete’s tenacity. We must hone our discipline, cultivating a spiritual focus that refuses to waver from the glorious future God has prepared for us. Remember this, brothers and sisters, as we journey together, “Every knee shall bow, and every tongue shall confess that Jesus is Lord.”

Understand this, all laws that govern our faith have been written, and no new law is forthcoming from heaven. We live by these edicts, these divine principles that instruct us on our journey toward our heavenly home.

Even as we face the tornadoes of life – the trials, the tribulations, the moments of doubt and despair – we must press on. Let nothing pull you down. Hear this and let it settle in your hearts: “You can do all things in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:13).

Our focus must remain on our faith in Jesus. As we nurture this focus, we will inevitably grow spiritually, becoming more and more like our Savior. Resist the urge to look back. Remember Lot’s wife who, upon looking back, was turned into a pillar of salt. We cannot afford such a costly misstep.

Like a woman in labor, we are called to push forward. Though the pain may be severe, it fades in the face of overwhelming joy when the baby is born. Similarly, our struggles on this earth will pale in comparison to the joy of reaching our heavenly home.

The words of Isaiah in Chapter 43, verses 15 to 17, serve as a beacon of hope for us. God is indeed doing a new thing in our lives. We must relinquish the past, with all its mistakes and regrets, and embrace the newness that God is orchestrating in us. Let our commitment, therefore, be focused on this forward momentum.

In all this, let us remain unceasing in prayer. As we continue pressing towards our goal, let every concern, every triumph, every fear, and every hope be taken to God in prayer. For He is faithful and will guide us, ever onward, towards the goal – His Kingdom.

So, beloved, let this message resonate in your hearts: Press on, press towards the goal, and let nothing hinder your journey. Let us run this race together, with our eyes fixed on the prize, the Kingdom of God. For in Christ, we have the victory. Amen.