Greater JOY Pt. 8: Persevering JOY
Philippians 3:12-21
12 Not that I have already reached the goal or am already perfect, but I make every effort to take hold of it because I also have been taken hold of by Christ Jesus. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead, 14 I pursue as my goal the prize promised by God’s heavenly call in Christ Jesus. 15 Therefore, let all of us who are mature think this way. And if you think differently about anything, God will reveal this also to you. 16 In any case, we should live up to whatever truth we have attained. 17 Join in imitating me, brothers and sisters, and pay careful attention to those who live according to the example you have in us. 18 For I have often told you, and now say again with tears, that many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their end is destruction; their god is their stomach; their glory is in their shame; and they are focused on earthly things. 20 Our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly wait for a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ. 21 He will transform the body of our humble condition into the likeness of his glorious body, by the power that enables him to subject everything to himself. CSB
Introduction: Heather Dorniden’s Amazing Comeback
Picture this: 2008, a college track championship, and Heather Dorniden is the favorite to win the 600 meters race. She’s ready, trained, and determined. But halfway through, disaster strikes – she trips and falls hard. In that moment, Heather had a choice: stay down and let the race end for her, or get up and finish strong. She chose to get up, giving it her all despite the setback. And guess what? She ended up winning! Heather's story reminds us that falling down isn’t the end. What matters is getting back up and persevering.
Context: Paul’s Letter from Prison
Now, let’s get into Paul’s context. He’s writing from prison to encourage his friends in Philippi. Imagine if his letter was filled with bitterness instead of joy. It wouldn’t have the same impact, right? Paul’s joy comes from his Christ-centered goals. He’s not focused on earthly things but on knowing Christ and the power of His resurrection. How different would our lives be if we had the same goal?
Content: Press On
I. Press On (Philippians 3:12-14)
Paul says he hasn’t reached perfection but he’s pressing on. He forgets what’s behind and strains forward to what’s ahead, pursuing the heavenly prize promised by God. Like Heather, when we fall, we need to get back up and keep moving forward.
II. Godly Examples (Philippians 3:15-17)
Paul encourages mature believers to adopt this mindset and follow godly examples. Surround yourself with people who inspire you to grow in your faith.
III. Heavenly Citizenship (Philippians 3:18-21)
Paul reminds us that our true citizenship is in heaven. While many live for earthly pleasures, we should pursue God’s glory. Our ultimate reward is in heaven, where we eagerly await transformation into Christ’s glorious body.
Practical Applications and Challenges:
Press On Daily: Develop habits like regular prayer, Bible study, and fellowship. Identify specific spiritual goals and pursue them with perseverance.
Follow Godly Examples: Seek mentors and be an example to others. Surround yourself with people who inspire and encourage you.
Embrace Your Heavenly Citizenship: Reflect on what it means to be a citizen of heaven and live with an eternal perspective. Influence your community with the hope and love of Christ.
Conclusion:
Let’s recap the key points:
Pressing on in our spiritual race
Following godly examples
Living as citizens of heaven
Call to Action:
Fam, keep pressing forward in your spiritual journey. Remember the heavenly prize that awaits you and the JOY that comes from knowing Christ Jesus as Lord. Take time this week to reflect on your own spiritual race. What steps do you need to take to keep your eyes on the heavenly prize? Commit to pressing on in your faith journey and embracing your identity as a citizen of heaven. Let’s pray for strength, perseverance, and a renewed focus on our heavenly goal.
And before you go, don’t miss the full sermon video linked below. It’s packed with more insights and practical steps to help you find JOY in perseverance. Watch it, share it, and let’s continue this journey together!
Watch the full sermon on YouTube of by clicking the link below.
