'I do not claim that I have already succeeded or have already become perfect. I keep striving to win the prize for which Christ Jesus has already won me to himself. Of course, my friends, I really do not think that I have already won it; the one thing I do, however, is to forget what is behind me and do my best to reach what is ahead. So I run straight toward the goal in order to win the prize, which is God's call through Christ Jesus to the life above. All of us who are spiritually mature should have this same attitude. But if some of you have a different attitude, God will make this clear to you. However that may be, let us go forward according to the same rules we have followed until now. Keep on imitating me, my friends. Pay attention to those who follow the right example that we have set for you. '
Philippians 3:12-17
A Biblical Guide to Overcoming the Past
Here are the main ideas from Philippians 3:12-17 presented in bullet-point form:
Acknowledge imperfection and the ongoing journey: Paul humbly admits that he has not yet achieved perfection or complete success in his spiritual walk.
Striving toward a divine goal: Paul emphasizes the importance of continually striving for the ultimate "prize"—a deeper relationship with Christ and the fulfillment of God's call to eternal life.
Forgetting the past, focusing on the future: Paul chooses to let go of past mistakes and achievements, directing all his energy toward the future and what lies ahead in Christ.
Run with purpose toward the goal: He encourages a disciplined and focused approach, likening the spiritual journey to a race aimed at reaching a specific goal.
Adopt a spiritually mature attitude: Those who are spiritually mature should adopt Paul's perspective of striving forward with humility and purpose.
Trust God's guidance in differences: For those with differing attitudes, Paul assures that God will reveal the truth to them in time.
Maintain consistency in faith: Paul urges believers to continue living according to the principles and rules they have learned in their spiritual journey.
Follow examples of faith: Paul invites the believers to imitate his way of life and pay attention to those who faithfully follow the example set by him and other spiritual leaders.
Listen, my dear child, let me share with you something that life and walking with Christ has taught me over many years. We don’t reach perfection in this life, not on our own. Paul himself, one of the greatest servants of Christ, admitted that he hadn’t yet arrived. And if he could say that, then we, too, must humbly accept that this journey of faith is about progress, not perfection.
The key is to keep striving, always reaching for that prize—God’s call on your life, the hope and promise found in Jesus. But you can’t carry the weight of the past with you. Let it go. Whatever mistakes, whatever victories you think define you, leave them behind and press forward. The path ahead is where your focus must be.
You need to run, not wander aimlessly, but run with purpose. Fix your eyes on the goal, on Christ, and let everything else fade. This mindset—this determination—is the mark of someone who is growing in spiritual maturity. And yes, not everyone will understand this right away. Some will push back or think differently. That’s okay; God will show them in His time. You just stay steady, walking the path you’ve learned.
And one last thing, don’t try to figure this out all on your own. Look to those who have lived faithfully. Follow the example of those who have walked before you in the light. It’s not about being perfect but being consistent. And my child, when you stumble—and you will—get back up and press on. God’s call is too precious to turn away from. Keep going. You’re not alone in this race.
But I Feel Alone
Oh, my dear child, I know that feeling of loneliness can weigh heavy, like a shadow that won’t lift. But let me tell you, you are never truly alone. It may feel that way at times, but feelings don’t always reflect the truth. The Word of God reminds us again and again that Christ Himself is with you, even in the darkest of moments.
Paul’s words in Philippians remind us that the journey of faith is not about what we can see or feel, but about the promise of the One who called us. Christ Jesus has already won you to Himself. He’s holding you close, even when it feels like no one else is around. That’s why Paul says to press on—not because it’s easy, but because we have a Savior who runs this race with us.
When you feel alone, remember this: God has called you His own. In Isaiah 41:10, He says, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” He’s holding you even now, whether you feel it or not.
And don’t forget what Paul says—look for those examples of faith around you. Sometimes loneliness comes because we’ve tried to carry everything on our own. God never meant for you to walk this road by yourself. Reach out. There are people—your brothers and sisters in Christ—who are willing to walk with you. Find those who are striving toward the same goal and lean on them, just as they might one day lean on you.
Above all, speak to God about your loneliness. He hears every word, every sigh. Pour out your heart to Him like David did in the Psalms. And then listen in the quiet. He speaks, not always with loud thunder, but in the stillness, in His Word, and through the people He places in your path.
You are loved, my child. More deeply than you can imagine. You are not alone—not now, not ever.
Don't be alone. That is what Congregations are for.
We are fitly joined as God puts it.
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