Press on: Navigate the mountain of challenges

Have you ever taken a moment to watch a race, perhaps a marathon or a triathlon? The athletes in these competitions are driven by a clear goal – to clinch that coveted first place and, hopefully, snag a cash prize. This desire propels them through rigorous training sessions and hours of relentless running. 

Now, consider yourself in your own race, pressing on toward Christ. Like those determined runners, you face hurdles that make forward progress challenging. It is akin to ascending a hill, dealing with anxiety, and requiring steadfast endurance to endure the climb.

In this spiritual race, the question arises: why continue to press on? The runners have eyes on victory and tangible rewards, but what about you?

The struggle to press on

Pressing on toward Christ can be a daunting journey. One significant struggle you might encounter is the relentless presence of anxiety. The uncertainties, the pressures, and the challenges on this path may weigh heavily on your shoulders. The road to spiritual growth is often paved with doubts and fears, making it crucial to find the strength to navigate through the anxious moments that threaten to hinder your progress.

Another formidable obstacle is the judgment you might face from others. As you press on, there will be those who question and scrutinize your choices, beliefs, and commitment to the faith. The fear of being judged or misunderstood can be a powerful deterrent. Yet, it is essential to rise above the opinions of others, focusing on your journey and steadfast commitment to your spiritual pursuit.

Earthly temptations add another layer of complexity to the struggles of pressing on toward Christ. The allure of material possessions, the distractions of worldly desires, and the constant pull of earthly pleasures can divert your attention and test your resolve. Resisting these temptations demands unwavering determination and a conscious effort to stay true to your spiritual path.

But while these solutions seem easy in theory, they are not, as they require a change in mindset and goals.

Philippians 3:12-16

In Philippians 3:12-16, the Apostle Paul shares insights that can resonate with you as you continue your faith journey. 

First, he says, "Not that I have already obtained all this." 

Here, Paul acknowledges that, like you, he has not reached the fullness of spiritual maturity or perfection. It is a reminder that the journey of pressing on toward Christ is ongoing; there is always room for growth and improvement.

He continues, "or have already arrived at my goal." 

Paul emphasizes that reaching the ultimate spiritual goal is a process, not an instant achievement. This resonates with your journey - acknowledging that the pursuit of Christlikeness is continuous, marked by progress rather than perfection.

Paul then shares, "But I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me." 

In these words, he emphasizes his determination to pursue the purpose for which Christ called him. Similarly, your spiritual journey has a purpose for which you have been called. It involves actively seeking and living out the will of Christ in your life.

Pursuing Christ

In other words, what Paul is earnestly pursuing is nothing less than Christ himself. The key practical strategy in this pursuit is to see Christ as supremely valuable, surpassing the worth of everything else in our lives. This means acknowledging the surpassing value of Christ and considering everything else as ultimately worthless in comparison.

In the face of anxiety, taking intentional steps to enhance our appreciation for Christ's superior worth becomes crucial. It is about actively seeking satisfaction in Christ and recognizing that true peace and contentment come from Him. This, in turn, becomes the most critical proof of our eternal security – the assurance that, despite the anxieties that may surround us, "Christ has made me his own."

That will be your motivation for pressing on.

But how will you continue if you are faced with a mountain of challenges?

Paul offers practical advice: "But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." 

He urges you to let go of past shortcomings, focus on the future, and relentlessly pursue the heavenly prize - fulfilling God's calling through Christ Jesus. It is a call to persistent, forward-looking faith in your spiritual journey.

This is because, when you are pressing on toward Christ, it is common to find yourself looking back at your material possessions and earthly goals. Yet, it is essential to recognize that this should be a different focus. Christ's teachings emphasize the significance of prioritizing spiritual values over worldly attachments.

Recall how Christ, in his ministry, urged his disciples to let go of everything and follow him. The call was clear – to detach from material concerns and worldly ambitions to wholeheartedly embrace the journey of faith. This example also serves as a potent reminder for you, urging you to reevaluate your priorities and not let material possessions or earthly goals hinder your pursuit of Christ.

Paul reiterates this call in Philippians 3:8.

He says, "What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord." 

Paul emphasizes the surpassing worth of knowing Christ, highlighting it as more valuable than everything else. This prompts you to reflect on the priorities in your own life – considering if you, too, see the knowledge and relationship with Christ as the most precious and valuable aspect.

Paul says, "For whose sake I have lost all things." 

Here, he acknowledges the sacrifices made for the sake of Christ. This challenges you to evaluate what you might need to relinquish or renunciation in pursuing a deeper connection with Christ. It is a reminder that aligning your life with Christ may involve giving up certain things that hinder your spiritual journey.

Finally, Paul states, "I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ." 

This strong language underscores the radical shift in Paul's perspective. The things he once valued are now considered worthless compared to the immeasurable gain of knowing Christ. This invites you to reassess the significance you attribute to worldly possessions and accomplishments, understanding that true fulfillment is found in gaining Christ.

That said, live a life where you constantly reflect Christ’s superior value. 

Actively align your decisions with the principles and teachings of Christ. Consider how you allocate your time – is it aligned with Christ's teachings and priorities? Likewise, evaluate whether your financial decisions reflect Christ's values when it comes to money. 

Does a recognition of His superior worth guide your choices? These practical considerations become a way of acknowledging that Christ holds the highest value in your life.

Your energy, a finite resource, is also subject to these choices. How you invest your efforts and focus speaks volumes about the importance you place on Christ's superior value. It is a daily decision to prioritize what truly matters in light of His teachings.

Each choice becomes a step forward, a deliberate movement as you press on towards Christ.

Read more:

Your life counts: How a broken past can help shape a future