When we hear the phrase “pressing on,” we often think about striving, grinding, and proving ourselves. In our faith, that mindset can quietly creep in, making us believe we need to earn God’s favor. But Paul flips that idea on its head. He isn’t pressing on to gain something he lacks; he’s pressing deeper into the One who has already taken hold of him. In Christ, we don’t run to achieve identity—we run because we already have it. This week, discover what it means to live not for approval, but from it—as citizens of a different kingdom, under the reign of a better King.

 Philippians 3:12-21

Straining Toward the Goal

12 Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. 13 Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you. 16 Only let us hold true to what we have attained.

17 Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. 18 For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. 20 But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.

For Adult Homes and Groups

Reread Philippians 3:12-21 and discuss these four questions:

1. What do these verses reveal about God’s role in your spiritual journey, and how does that shape your understanding of “pressing on”?

2. Paul says he presses on because Christ has already made him His own. What does that say about your identity in Christ right now, not someday, but today?

3. How does being a “citizen of heaven” challenge the way you live in the world today? What tensions or opportunities does that create?

4. What is one area of your life where you sense God inviting you to “press on” - not to earn, but to grow deeper in intimacy with Jesus?

For Families with Kids

1. Read Philippians 3:12-21 together. Have you tried to reach a big goal in a sport or hobby you enjoy? What happened while you were trying to get there? How did it work out? How did it feel to reach that goal?

2. What does it feel like to work hard at something and find yourself getting better?

3. What does Paul mean when he writes, “I press on” (vv12-14)?

4. How does trusting that Jesus is always with us help you to keep “pressing on” when life gets hard or messy?

5. Make a list together as a family. Write down 10 things you can do to keep your focus on Christ; put that list in different areas in your home where you will see them. Then write 10 goals to encourage others (friends, coworkers) in their faith to “press on.” Pray Psalm 28 together - a prayer to help give you strength for pressing on in faith.