Read Philippians 3:13-14 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Discover
Building on his encouragement to press on, Paul cements it with an analogy. Specifically, a race. Paul says that to overcome a past that haunts us and reach the finish line, we must have faith that there’s something better we’re running to. A “one thing” that propels us forward. We’re not running from our past; we’re running with purpose toward our future.
Just as an Olympian trains for his or her moment of glory, we’re called to do the same in the Christian life. We can’t slouch our way to glory. We have to train with intention and purpose. It takes every part of us to run, and we have to let God sculpt and shape us with every step.
Let’s make room for Jesus, the very One who bought our forgiveness on the cross. Let’s discipline our bodies so we can experience more of His love and grace and so we can show who He is to a broken world.
• Run with purpose. How are you doing in the area of training for this race of the Christian life? Specifically, how often are you letting God shape you through time in His Word, prayer, serving, and giving? Not as check-the-box items, but because they come from gratitude for what Jesus has done and a desire to run the race for His purpose and glory. Note where you see gaps in your “training,” and consider them as you move into response.
Respond
Use your Philippians Guidebook to reflect and respond. For a digital copy of the guidebook, visit tpcc.org/rebels-guide.
Want to go deeper? Look up the following verses for another instance where Paul talks about running with purpose. Note what you observe and then continue with your time of response.
• 1 Corinthians 9:24-27