Pressing Toward the Goal

Reach the Goal Set Before You
Courtesy Free Clip Art

 Pastor Jerry read today from:

 

Philippians 3:13-14  Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,  I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Often we suffer a “set-back.” Perhaps you or I did - - even this week. Yet we must not give up, but we are to press on toward the goal that is set before us.

Taking notes, I offer a condensed sermon from Pastor Jerry. 

As we look around us there are many suffering devastation worse than we are.  We reach out to help even in our small way with gifts sent through our church or other trustworthy organizations to ease the hunger suffering and pain.

Pastor gave an example; The floods and wind came and ripped many trees from the earth.  One tree was left standing because its roots were entwined around a large rock. 

 

We must be anchored into the Rock Christ Jesus, lest we be swept away when turmoil comes our way.

No matter the difficulty, Christ Jesus is the shelter in the storm where we can find our sanctuary and haven of peace.

The institutional Church offers us roots where we can seek a safe haven.  There we can be reminded of Jesus the Savior through even the traditions and symbols found there.

Paul wrote to the church at Philippi and the times were dangerous.  He reminded them to not dwell on the past, but rather to forget those things that hold us in bondage; such as our grief, grumbling, and complaining.  Paul himself was not boasting about all his former religious training and high standing, but counted it all lost as he embraced Christ.

Paul urged the Christians to rather find something worthwhile to be thankful for.  To bring to mind those things that are true, lovely and of good report and to harness their thoughts and push their mind toward those good things. 

Press on, and never give up, as many are watching you and you are bringing the Light of Christ into their world by your faith.

As the service ended the congregation sang the Hymn,

 

My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.

On Christ the solid rock I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
On Christ the solid rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand.

 

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