Press On! – Philippians 3:12-16

Though Paul was a spiritual giant in the eyes of the Philippian saints, he wanted them to know that he had not yet attained the goals stated in verse 10. He was still actively pressing on toward them. He had by no means reached the final stage of his sanctification.

The word “press on,” διώκω, means “to run swiftly in order to catch some person or thing.” It was used in both hunting and athletics. As to the former, it described the pursuit of game, stalking it with relentlessness. In athletics it meant to run so as to gain the victory.

Bible history is filled with people who began the race of life with great success, but failed at the end because they disregarded God’s plans. They missed out on ultimate joy by having a spiritual mindset. As you run the race of life are you wheezing and gasping for encouragement? Do you feel as if you could quit? Paul gives us five essentials needed in running the race of life.