Press Towards the Goal

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, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

In this life, there are many pursuits. People chase wealth, fame, comfort, power, and even happiness. But for the believer in Christ, there is a higher goal — a divine calling that transcends earthly rewards. It is the upward call of God in Christ Jesus, and the apostle Paul challenges us to press toward it with relentless focus and determination.

1. Understanding the Goal

Before we can press toward the goal, we must understand what the goal is. Paul is not speaking of material success or even ministry accomplishments. The “goal” is becoming like Christ, walking in complete obedience to God, and ultimately receiving the eternal reward of being with Him forever. It is the goal of maturity in faith, holiness in life, and faithfulness in service.

The Christian life is not a sprint but a marathon. It requires endurance, discipline, and unwavering commitment. Paul, one of the greatest apostles, humbly admits that he has not “arrived.” Despite all he had done for the gospel — planting churches, writing scriptures, enduring persecution — he still said, “I do not count myself to have apprehended.” This teaches us humility and encourages us to never become complacent.

2. Forgetting the Past

Paul says, “One thing I do: forgetting those things which are behind…” To press forward, we must let go of what lies behind. This includes both our past failures and past successes.

Past failures: Many believers are held back by guilt, shame, and regret. But if God has forgiven you, you must forgive yourself. The blood of Jesus covers all sin. The enemy will remind you of your past, but God wants to remind you of your future. Don’t let yesterday’s wounds poison today’s walk.
Past successes: Sometimes, we live in the memory of past victories and neglect present responsibility. Yesterday’s anointing is not enough for today’s assignment. We must continually seek fresh grace and fresh fire. Paul didn’t let his previous achievements become a resting place — he kept pressing.

3. Reaching Forward

Paul continues: “…reaching forward to those things which are ahead…” The image is that of a runner stretching out, leaning forward, eager to finish well. The Christian life is about constant growth, deeper intimacy with Jesus, and a desire to go further in your calling.

This means pursuing spiritual disciplines with passion: prayer, fasting, studying the Word, serving others, worship, and fellowship with the body of Christ. It also means being open to the Spirit’s leading — willing to obey even when it’s uncomfortable.

Some believers have become stagnant — going through the motions, spiritually dry, or caught in a cycle of spiritual ups and downs. But God is calling us higher. There is more ahead. There is deeper revelation, more fruitful ministry, stronger faith, and greater joy — but only if we press forward.

4. Pressing Requires Effort

The word “press” implies struggle, resistance, and intensity. The Greek word used here suggests a pursuit with determination, like an athlete straining every muscle to reach the finish line. This means that pressing toward the goal won’t always be easy. You will face opposition.

From the world: The world’s system is anti-God. It will tempt you to compromise, distract you with pleasures, and intimidate you with persecution.
From the flesh: Your own desires will try to pull you back. Laziness, fear, pride, and discouragement must be crucified daily.
From the enemy: Satan will not stand idly by while you run your race. He will try to stop you with lies, temptations, and spiritual attacks.

But don’t give up! Every step you take in obedience, every tear you cry in secret prayer, every time you resist sin — you are pressing toward the goal. And God sees it all. He empowers you with His Spirit and walks with you every step of the way.

5. The Prize Awaits

Paul speaks of “the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” There is a reward at the finish line. This prize is not gold or silver. It is not applause from men. The prize is Christ Himself — to see Him face to face, to hear “Well done, good and faithful servant,” to reign with Him in glory, and to enjoy eternal fellowship in His presence.

Hebrews 12:2 tells us that Jesus endured the cross “for the joy that was set before Him.” In the same way, we endure trials, battles, and hardships because we know that something far greater is waiting.

2 Timothy 4:7–8 says: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness…” Paul finished strong, and so can you.

6. Stay Focused and Encouraged

There will be days when you feel like quitting. There will be seasons where nothing seems to change. But don’t be deceived — growth is happening. Faith is being strengthened. Character is being refined. You are being conformed into the image of Christ.

Keep your eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of your faith. Don’t compare your race with others. Don’t look back. Don’t get distracted. Don’t settle for less. Heaven is cheering you on, and the Holy Spirit is your helper.

Surround yourself with believers who are also running. Encourage one another. Correct one another in love. Rejoice with those who make progress and lift up those who have stumbled. We are in this together.

Final Encouragement

Beloved, press toward the goal. Don’t live a passive Christian life. Don’t be content with just being saved. Grow in grace. Burn for Jesus. Fight the good fight. Stay in the Word. Stay on your knees. Serve with joy. Love deeply. Forgive quickly. Worship passionately.

There is a crown waiting. There is a prize worth pursuing. There is a goal worth dying for — and living for. Every trial, every sacrifice, every moment of obedience is not in vain. Keep running. Keep pressing. Your best days in Christ are ahead.

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.”
— 1 Corinthians 15:58

Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for calling us to a higher purpose in Christ Jesus. Help us to let go of the past, to press forward with faith, and to run the race You have set before us with endurance. Strengthen us by Your Spirit when we are weak. Keep our eyes fixed on the eternal prize. May we finish our course with joy, bringing glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.