The Final Word
2018-12-30
Pastor Jonathan Falwell
Key Verse: Philippians 3:12 I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me.
1. Nobody’s Perfect
a. Phil. 3:12a I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection.
b. Your spiritual journey doesn’t need to look like the Apostle Paul’s to be effective
c. Perfection is not the goal, obedience is!
2. Keep Trying
a. Vs 12b But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me.
b. Knowing that it’s a constant journey, we need to remain focused on what matters
c. Don’t be discouraged by sidetracks or train wrecks, keep moving
3. Let Go Of What’s Behind
a. Vs 13a No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past
b. We must let go of what slows us or stops us
c. Too many people are bound by the failures of the past which keeps us from the successes in the future
d. Recognize that no one is perfect, everyone has baggage, failures are a part of the journey, and we can ALL move past them
4. Look Forward To What’s Ahead
a. Vs 13b … and looking forward to what lies ahead,
b. What lies ahead?
- Getting to know Him better
- Spiritual maturity
- Spiritual impact
- Changed lives
- Heaven
5. Do What’s Needed
a. Vs 14 I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
b. Finishing well is the mark of a faithful follower
c. Dropping off along the way happens when we take our eyes off of the prize
d. Keep your focus on God’s will and plan for your life and you will win the race
Keep your focus
- Stay in God’s Word daily
- Talk to Him daily
- Keep a journal of what you’re learning, reading, praying
- Read books, stories, articles about faithful followers of Christ
- Connect with others in the journey to remain accountable
- Prioritize your faith walk over EVERYTHING else
- Don’t quit