A Biblical Strategy For Success In The New Year

Subject: A Biblical Strategy For Success in the New Year

Text: Philippians 3:7-14

Php 3:4 “Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: 5 Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; 6 Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless. 7 But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. 8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, 9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: 10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; 11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.

12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. 13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,

14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”

Introduction: Paul, who is the writer of our text, provides a strategy for the Philippian Church as they move forward to become the best that they could be for Christ. Rather than be complacent with his accomplishments, Paul expresses an urgency. It would have been easy for Paul to relax in his limited environment and rejoice in his past success, but there is an urgency in his testimony. He was constantly looking for more productivity, so even in prison, he sets his sights higher. The Apostle Paul gives this church his personal testimony. Paul was never one to let circumstances conquer him. Rather, with the help of God, he was determined to fulfill God’s purpose for his life in the moment. In this text, Paul’s attitude, dedication, determination shines through in a powerful way.

Paul seems to recognize that when believers are facing great difficulties, there is a temptation to lack off or slowdown.

Knowing the problems created by a pandemic of persecution and present trials, he wanted to be an encouraging example for the church at Philippi. As men and women of God who have different perspectives, needs, and desires, we need godly examples of others who are pressing on successfully in ministry. if we are going to successfully fulfil our ministry, we must run this race with patience. We need to have a sense of urgency and we will need a workable strategy. They are so many things that claim our attention, so many goals to reach until it is difficult to stay focused in confusing times.

Have you lost your sense of urgency for kingdom building? Are you just waiting for things to return to normal? Can the Gospel message be successful in a pandemic? How can we reach our potential for Christ with Church building close? How can we give it our best? How can they stay focused during these difficult days? I believe this text reveals a biblical strategy for success that maybe helpful.

Apostle Paul set a good example on how to succeed in the Christian race during a pandemic of persecution when the church was in hiding. He ran his race with an urgent, wholehearted commitment, giving every effort to win the world for Christ. Consequently, he wants the Philippian Church to follow in his step, striving to be godly examples for Christ in an excellent way. Paul understood the high price to be paid, because he was paying it himself. It will take diligence and exertion to attain what God desired for them and for every one of us, but the price is worth the effort.

Listen again to these words, “Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: 5 Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee; 6 Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.” Notice, Paul lists his qualifications and accomplishments, his zeal and righteous living, not as a place to rest, but a launching pad for more. To whom much is given, much is required. During these dark days, the church of God must shine brightly.