Pressing Toward the Prize – Endurance in Philippians 3:14
- Kristin Smith
- Jan 21
- 2 min read
Scripture Focus
"I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." – Philippians 3:14 (NIV)
Devotional Reflection
The Christian life is a journey, often compared to a race that requires endurance, focus, and perseverance. In Philippians 3:14, Paul shares his determination to press on toward the prize—an eternal reward found in Christ Jesus.
This call to press on is not about striving in our own strength but about relying on God’s grace to move forward in faith. It means keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, even when the path is hard or uncertain. The prize we seek is not temporary success but the fulfillment of God’s calling and the joy of being with Him forever.
Life’s challenges can feel like hurdles, but each step taken in faith brings us closer to the goal. Today, let Paul’s example encourage you to persevere, trusting that God is with you in every step and will sustain you to the finish line.
Inhale Truth, Exhale Trust
Breath Prayer: (Inhale) “I press on toward the goal…”(Exhale) “…for Your glory, Lord.”
How to Practice a Breath Prayer: Find a quiet space where you can sit comfortably and take a few deep breaths to settle your mind. As you inhale, silently pray the first part of the phrase (e.g., “I press on toward the goal…”), and as you exhale, pray the second part (e.g., “…for Your glory, Lord.”). Repeat the prayer slowly for 2–5 minutes, allowing the rhythm of your breathing to guide your focus.
Practical Application
Reflect on an area of your life where you feel weary or discouraged.
Pray for strength and ask God to help you persevere in faith.
Take one intentional step today toward your goal, trusting God to sustain you.
Journal Prompt
Write about a time when you pressed on through difficulty and saw God’s faithfulness. How does this experience encourage you to endure in your current season?
Closing Prayer
Lord, thank You for calling me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Strengthen me to press on toward the prize, even when the journey feels hard. Help me to keep my eyes on You, trusting in Your grace and power to sustain me. May my perseverance glorify You and encourage others to run the race with faith and endurance. Amen.
Invitation to Live with Truth, Goodness, and Beauty
Pressing on in faith reveals the truth, goodness, and beauty of God’s calling in our lives. Share this devotional with someone who needs encouragement to endure, and let’s run the race together, fixing our eyes on Christ.
Comments