Pressing Toward The Mark

PRESSING TOWARD THE MARK

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Philippians 3:12-14

Supporting Texts: 2 Timothy 4:7-8, Hebrews 12:1-2, Luke 9:62, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

INTRODUCTION:

The Christian journey is not a sprint but a lifelong race. It is marked by challenges, victories, setbacks, and breakthroughs. The Apostle Paul, though mature in faith and filled with the Spirit, still acknowledged that he had not yet attained the fullness of his calling. His words in Philippians 3:12–14 serve as a strong reminder that every believer must pursue spiritual growth with focus and passion.

Pressing toward the mark involves commitment, focus, discipline, and the refusal to settle for less than God's best. It means letting go of past failures and successes to reach forward to what lies ahead. The goal is not just heaven, but also fulfilling God’s purpose for your life on earth.

As we explore this topic today, may we be inspired to run with endurance, realign our focus, and renew our passion for the things of God. The reward is not just at the end but also in the joy of living each day in God's perfect will.

1. ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR CURRENT SPIRITUAL STATE

a) Recognise that growth is ongoing (Philippians 3:12):

Paul humbly admitted that he had not yet attained full spiritual maturity. No matter how far we’ve come in the faith, we must remain hungry for more of God and keep growing.

b) Avoid the trap of complacency (1 Corinthians 10:12):

Thinking we have "arrived" spiritually can be dangerous. Complacency weakens our spiritual alertness and opens the door for the enemy to attack.

c) Stay humble in your pursuit of God (James 4:6):

God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. A humble heart continues to seek God sincerely and passionately.

d) Be honest with God and yourself (Psalm 139:23-24):

Self-examination helps us remain on course and sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

Biblical Example: King David often evaluated his heart before God and sought divine correction to stay aligned with God's purpose (Psalm 51:10-12).

2. LET GO OF THE PAST TO EMBRACE THE FUTURE

a) Forget past failures and disappointments (Isaiah 43:18-19):

Dwelling on the past can trap you in regret and hinder future progress. God is doing a new thing, and we must be ready to perceive it.

b) Do not rest on past successes (Luke 9:62):

Even achievements can become a distraction if we dwell on them too long. We must press forward and not look back.

c) Release every weight of guilt or shame (Romans 8:1):

There is no condemnation for those in Christ. Holding onto guilt robs you of joy and strength for the journey ahead.

d) Focus on the future promises of God (Jeremiah 29:11):

God has a glorious future in store for you—one filled with hope, purpose, and fulfilment.

Biblical Example: The woman with the issue of blood let go of shame and fear, pressed through the crowd, and reached out for healing (Mark 5:25-34).

3. RUN WITH FOCUS AND PURPOSE

a) Keep your eyes on Jesus (Hebrews 12:2):

He is the author and finisher of our faith. Staying focused on Him helps us avoid distractions and stay steady.

b) Know your spiritual race and lane (1 Corinthians 9:24-26):

Run with discipline, not aimlessly. Each believer has a unique race set by God, and comparison with others will only slow you down.

c) Stay committed despite obstacles (Galatians 6:9):

You will face challenges, but do not be weary in well doing. Your due season of reward is coming.

d) Refuse to be entangled by worldly things (2 Timothy 2:4):

The affairs of this life can slow you down. Stay focused on your heavenly assignment.

Biblical Example: Nehemiah refused to be distracted by opposition and stayed focused on rebuilding the wall (Nehemiah 6:1-4).

4. PRESS THROUGH WITH SPIRITUAL DETERMINATION

a) Be intentional about spiritual growth (2 Peter 3:18):

You must press into God's Word, prayer, and obedience deliberately. Growth never happens by accident.

b) Let the Holy Spirit empower your journey (Zechariah 4:6):

It's not by might nor by power, but by the Spirit of God. Depend on Him for strength and direction.

c) Set clear spiritual goals (Psalm 37:5):

Commit your plans to the Lord. Know where you are headed spiritually and pursue it with discipline.

d) Never give up, no matter the opposition (Micah 7:8):

Even when you fall, rise again and keep moving forward. The righteous may fall seven times but rises again.

Biblical Example: The Apostle Paul endured shipwrecks, beatings, and imprisonment but never gave up his heavenly pursuit (2 Corinthians 11:23-28).

5. EXPECT A CROWN OF GLORY

a) God rewards faithful runners (2 Timothy 4:7-8):

A crown of righteousness awaits those who finish well and remain faithful.

b) Your labour in the Lord is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58):