Philippians 3:12 “Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.”
As the Apostle Paul defines his present reality of not being at the level he desires, he gives a very powerful resolve that starts with a word we associate with contrast, saying, “but…” This word but is more than a contrast here as Paul is using this word to convey commitment.
While he defines what he is NOT, he makes it clear what he is.
And what he is pressing forward. He is pursuing. His dissatisfaction with the present level has brought about a determination, a dogged determination, to be more like Christ and do more for Christ.
His determination will be followed up with discipline as he writes in Philippians 3:13-14 “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, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”
Did you catch the discipline? He said one thing I do! He is fully devoted to being all he can be and do for Christ.
Are you in pursuit of becoming all you can be for Jesus? If your answer is yes then you are going to have moments of dissatisfaction that turn into new determination followed by a new discipline to press on!
Define your spiritual life reality and determine to improve. Never ever be satisfied.
A March to Remember
For March 12, let us remember Hebrews 9:12. Hebrews 9:12 says, “Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption.”
The sacrifice of Christ was once and for all. When He said it was finished it was finished. In an out-of-this-world scene, Christ entered the Most Holy Place of heaven and presented His blood that was accepted by the Father and now an eternal redemption is offered to us. What a Savior!
On March 12 we encourage you to read Matthew 12 and John 12 to recall our Lord’s teaching and to read of the extravagant love of Mary of Bethany. You can find the Bible reading plan on the Date the Word app.
Continue Strong this March Remembering our Savior,
And remember to DATE the Word
