Growth and progress in Christ are pulsing through this passage, as Paul describes how he is continuing to strive for the goal of Christlikeness.

Take at look at this week’s passage in Philippians 3:12:

What Paul states in this verse begins one of the most familiar paragraphs in his letter to the Philippians. In this passage, he begins to describe what it looks like to press on to the prize.

It is unclear what it is that Paul is referring to as he begins this passage. Just what is it that he has not yet obtained? He has just finished speaking about the resurrection of the dead, and becoming like Christ in his sufferings. That could be what he is talking about here, but it leaves something to be desired.

He has already been accounted righteousness, because of Christ’s actions on the cross, so that is probably not what he is talking about here either.

Most likely, he is speaking of continued growth in Christ. He realizes that he has not reached perfection. He knows that continued growth is required. And his use of the term “press on” shows that he will continue to work toward this goal, for as long as he is able.

This makes a lot of sense. The believer can press on in pursuit of holiness, knowing that he is not yet perfect, yet living in confidence that one day he will be made perfect. Perfect here, in this sense, does not mean sinlessness. That is unattainable in our lives, and will only come when we make it to heaven. Rather, perfection means something more like being fully grown, mature, complete.

Paul seeks to take hold of this perfection, growing in Christ until he is indistinguishable from Jesus, as much as is possible. Paul seeks to take hold of that for which Christ took hold of him. He seeks to know the purpose for which Christ seized him, and to seize it for himself, to become what God has intended him to become.

This idea, that God has a purpose for our lives, is found all throughout Scripture. But God’s will does not occur alone. Our efforts are meant to be paired with his will to get the job done. We have a part to play in completing God’s will upon this earth and in our lives. Our cooperation will help get the job done.

What is God’s will for you? Do you know what he has called you to do? Are you willing to answer?

Question: What call has God placed on your life? Are you willing to follow that call, and work with him to accomplish it? You can leave a comment by clicking here.