June 16th, 2025
By: Josh Sims
Philippians 3:12 states: "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."
Paul, mature in age and faith, is writing this letter to his Philippian friends while in prison. Paul acknowledges that he is not yet at his final destination or at a state of complete holiness. He is actively pursuing a deeper relationship with Christ and striving for growth in his faith. Paul made three missionary journeys throughout the Roman Empire, establishing churches in various cities and regions. This is THE Paul. He preached to both Jewish and Gentile audiences, emphasizing that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ. He wrote numerous letters to his followers, providing theological insights and practical guidance for Christian living. He faced persecution and imprisonment for his faith, yet continued to preach the gospel. However, he says he has not yet attained the final product!
Paul is seeking to grasp and fully understand the abundant blessings and transformation that are available in Christ. Paul recognizes that Christ initiated the process by drawing him to faith, and now Paul is actively responding to that initiative. The verse highlights the ongoing journey of sanctification, the process of becoming more like Christ, which is a lifelong pursuit. It encourages believers to not rest on their laurels, but to keep striving for maturity in their faith and relationship with God.
Take Paul’s words to heart! God wants to pour Himself out into your life. No matter our level of faith, we should all continue to chase after God’s presence. A deeper relationship is on the other side of your expectation, prayer, worship, and bible reading!
Philippians 3:12 states: "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."
Paul, mature in age and faith, is writing this letter to his Philippian friends while in prison. Paul acknowledges that he is not yet at his final destination or at a state of complete holiness. He is actively pursuing a deeper relationship with Christ and striving for growth in his faith. Paul made three missionary journeys throughout the Roman Empire, establishing churches in various cities and regions. This is THE Paul. He preached to both Jewish and Gentile audiences, emphasizing that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ. He wrote numerous letters to his followers, providing theological insights and practical guidance for Christian living. He faced persecution and imprisonment for his faith, yet continued to preach the gospel. However, he says he has not yet attained the final product!
Paul is seeking to grasp and fully understand the abundant blessings and transformation that are available in Christ. Paul recognizes that Christ initiated the process by drawing him to faith, and now Paul is actively responding to that initiative. The verse highlights the ongoing journey of sanctification, the process of becoming more like Christ, which is a lifelong pursuit. It encourages believers to not rest on their laurels, but to keep striving for maturity in their faith and relationship with God.
Take Paul’s words to heart! God wants to pour Himself out into your life. No matter our level of faith, we should all continue to chase after God’s presence. A deeper relationship is on the other side of your expectation, prayer, worship, and bible reading!
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