Press Toward The Goal

-January 2, 2022-

Good morning, happy Lord’s Day,

“Brethren, I do not count myself as apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

(Philippians 3:13-14).

Every year people make New Year’s Resolutions of every kind. There are those that are physical, such as losing weight, exercising, or some type of plastic or cosmetic surgery to look better; or financial, to make more, save more, or spend less; or career, to get a better job, a promotion, or retire; or social, to spend more time with family, friends, or on oneself. The problem with these resolutions is that they rely on self to accomplish them. Most resolutions fail within a month or two.

Spiritual goals have best chance of success when we rely on the Holy Spirit. They do require we do our part with commitment, dedication, self-discipline, prayer, and effort. When the Lord is in them, we can achieve them. If you have the goal of praying more or reading and studying the word more, or getting more involved in serving in your local church, or sharing your faith, God will help you achieve them.

Paul said, “Forgetting those things which are behind, such as the year 2021 with all its failures or successes, defeats or victories, downs or up; and we must “press on toward the goal for the prize of upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Athletes are familiar with the phrase, “Keep your eyes on the prize.” It means to stay focused all the way to the end. Runners must look straight ahead all the way through the finish line, lest someone overtake them near the end of race. As servants of Christ we need to be razor focused on the mission this year. Time is short and none of us know how much time we have left on this earth.

There is a beautiful Christian song that says, “In Jesus’ name we press on, in Jesus’ we press on. O Lord with prize clear before our eyes, we find the strength to press on.” We will face obstacles and opposition, hardships and trials, but we must press on. God will help us. Paul wrote, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). We can’t do it on our own or in our own strength. Let us seek His guidance and help to achieve our goals for 2022.

Have a blessed day trusting in God’s strength to do God’s will, to accomplish His purposes, and achieve our goals. Stay safe and healthy.

In His goodness and grace,

Dean