Not There Yet, But I Have Moved

NOT THERE YET, BUT I HAVE MOVED

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Philippians 3:13-14 – “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, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”

Supporting Texts: Genesis 12:1-4, Hebrews 11:8-10, 2 Corinthians 3:18, Job 8:7, Proverbs 4:18

INTRODUCTION:

Life is a journey filled with transitions, growth, and progress. There are moments when we feel like we have not yet arrived at our desired destination, but we must recognise that we are no longer where we used to be. God is a God of movement, and He desires that His children make continuous progress in their walk with Him.

Many times, people become discouraged because they are not yet where they expected to be in life. However, the Word of God reminds us that we should not be disheartened. Instead, we should focus on the fact that we have moved forward from where we once were. Progress, no matter how small, is still progress. The key is to keep pressing forward, trusting in God’s guidance.

In this sermon, we will examine how to maintain a mindset of progress, embrace spiritual growth, and move forward with faith, even when we have not yet reached our ultimate goal.

1. ACKNOWLEDGING PROGRESS WHILE STRIVING FOR MORE

Even though we may not be where we want to be, it is important to appreciate how far God has brought us.

a) Recognising God’s Hand in Your Journey: Every step forward is a testimony of God’s faithfulness (1 Samuel 7:12). We must not take His grace for granted.

b) Refusing to Be Discouraged by Delays: Delay is not denial. Just because you have not arrived does not mean you are stagnant. God is still at work (Habakkuk 2:3).

c) Celebrating Small Victories: Zechariah 4:10 warns us not to despise small beginnings. Every step forward is part of the process.

d) Maintaining a Thankful Heart: Thanksgiving keeps us focused on God’s goodness and prevents us from being overwhelmed by what we have not yet achieved (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

e) Biblical Example:  The Israelites were not yet in the Promised Land, but they had left Egypt. Their journey was proof of progress, even though they had not reached their final destination (Exodus 13:17-18).

2. FORGETTING THE PAST AND PRESSING FORWARD

One major hindrance to progress is dwelling on the past—whether failures, disappointments, or even past successes.

a) Refusing to Be Stuck in Yesterday’s Failures: Dwelling on past mistakes can keep you from seeing what God is doing now (Isaiah 43:18-19).

b) Learning from the Past but Not Living in It: Mistakes should be stepping stones, not stumbling blocks. We must grow from them and move forward (Proverbs 24:16).

c) Letting Go of Past Achievements: Sometimes, past successes make people complacent. We must strive for greater heights in God (Luke 9:62).

d) Keeping Your Eyes on the Future: God’s plans for us are progressive, and we must keep moving forward to fulfil them (Jeremiah 29:11).

e) Biblical Example: Lot’s wife looked back and became a pillar of salt (Genesis 19:26). She missed her future because she was tied to her past.

3. MAINTAINING A PRESSING MINDSET

Spiritual and physical progress requires intentionality, determination, and focus.

a) Developing a Hunger for Growth: Just as Paul said he had not yet attained, we must keep striving for more in God (Philippians 3:12-14).

b) Avoiding the Trap of Comparison: Looking at others can discourage or distract you. Focus on your unique journey with God (2 Corinthians 10:12).

c) Cultivating Spiritual Discipline: Prayer, fasting, and studying God’s Word are essential for continuous growth (Joshua 1:8).

d) Surrounding Yourself with Progress-Minded People: The people you associate with will influence your mindset and actions (Proverbs 27:17).

e) Biblical Example: Nehemiah faced opposition while rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, but he refused to be discouraged. He kept pressing on until the work was completed (Nehemiah 6:3).

4. TRUSTING GOD’S TIMING AND PROCESS

God’s timing is not always our timing, but His ways are perfect.

a) Understanding That God Works in Seasons: There is a time for everything (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Waiting does not mean nothing is happening.

b) Trusting God Even When Progress Seems Slow: Sometimes, the journey feels long, but God is working behind the scenes (Psalm 37:7).

c) Embracing Growth Over Speed: Spiritual maturity is more important than just moving fast (James 1:4).

d) Resting in God’s Promises: Even when you don’t see results yet, trust that God will fulfil His word (Numbers 23:19).

e) Biblical Example:  Abraham had to wait for God’s promise of Isaac, but in the end, God was faithful (Genesis 21:1-3).

5. MOVING FORWARD WITH FAITH AND EXPECTATION