Pressing Toward Purpose: A Christ-Centered New Year
Summary
As we embark on this new year, it's essential to set our sights on a vision that aligns with God's purpose for our lives. Philippians 3 serves as a guiding scripture, encouraging us to press toward the goal of becoming more Christ-like. This journey requires us to have a clear vision, trust in God's direction, and maintain hope that anchors us through life's challenges. The fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, and self-control—are the markers of a life lived in alignment with God's will. These fruits are not just resolutions but are the evidence of a life transformed by the Spirit.
We are reminded that our lives are like boats meant to float on water, not to be filled with it. This metaphor illustrates the importance of casting our cares upon God, allowing Him to remove the burdens that threaten to sink us. Our journey is not aimless; we are called to press on with purpose, trusting in the compass of God's Word to guide us. Faith, which works through love, is the driving force that enables us to overcome obstacles and achieve the impossible.
The priceless value of knowing Christ is the foundation of our faith. Just as we trust in the value of currency, we must trust in the value of our relationship with Jesus. This trust is not blind but is built on the assurance of His promises and the evidence of His faithfulness. Our faith acts as an anchor, securing us in the hope of eternal life and the abundant life promised by Jesus.
As we move forward, let us focus on the attitude of gratitude, recognizing that our progress is not just about moving forward but about holding on to the growth we've already achieved. Trust in God's process, and let His divine power, which has given us everything we need for a godly life, be our source of strength and resilience. In doing so, we will thrive in His presence, purpose, and promise, reflecting His love and grace in every aspect of our lives.
Key Takeaways:
- Vision and Purpose: Setting a clear vision aligned with God's purpose is crucial for spiritual growth. Philippians 3 encourages us to press toward the goal of becoming more Christ-like, which requires trust in God's direction and hope that anchors us through life's challenges. [41:15]
- Casting Cares: Our lives are like boats meant to float on water, not to be filled with it. By casting our cares upon God, we allow Him to remove burdens that threaten to sink us, enabling us to live purposefully and victoriously. [42:25]
- Faith as an Anchor: Faith acts as an anchor, securing us in the hope of eternal life and the abundant life promised by Jesus. This trust is built on the assurance of His promises and the evidence of His faithfulness. [50:56]
- Attitude of Gratitude: Progress is not just about moving forward but about holding on to the growth we've already achieved. An attitude of gratitude helps us recognize God's blessings and maintain a positive outlook. [51:50]
- Trust in God's Provision: God's divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life. Trusting in His provision allows us to thrive in His presence, purpose, and promise, reflecting His love and grace in every aspect of our lives. [57:43]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:30] - Introduction and Greetings
- [01:15] - The Power of "Ives"
- [02:45] - Setting Goals and Vision
- [04:10] - The Fruit of the Spirit
- [06:00] - Casting Cares on God
- [08:30] - Trusting the Compass
- [10:00] - The Priceless Value of Knowing Christ
- [12:00] - Pressing Toward the Goal
- [14:30] - Faith and Love
- [16:00] - The Attitude of Gratitude
- [18:00] - Trusting in God's Provision
- [20:00] - The Anchor of Hope
- [22:00] - Conclusion and Prayer
- [24:00] - Announcements and Closing Remarks
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
- Philippians 3:1-21
- 1 Peter 5:7
- Hebrews 11:1
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Observation Questions:
1. In Philippians 3, what does Paul emphasize as the ultimate goal for believers? How does he describe his own journey toward this goal? [46:00]
2. The sermon uses the metaphor of a boat to describe our lives. What does it mean to "cast our cares upon God," and how is this related to the metaphor? [42:25]
3. According to the sermon, what role does faith play in our spiritual journey, and how is it described as an anchor? [50:56]
4. What are the fruits of the Spirit mentioned in the sermon, and how are they described as evidence of a life transformed by the Spirit? [41:15]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the concept of pressing toward the goal in Philippians 3 relate to the idea of having a clear vision and purpose in one's spiritual life? [46:00]
2. The sermon mentions the importance of gratitude. How does maintaining an attitude of gratitude help us hold on to the progress we've made in our spiritual journey? [51:50]
3. In what ways does trusting in God's provision, as mentioned in the sermon, enable believers to thrive in their faith and daily lives? [57:43]
4. How does the sermon illustrate the relationship between faith and love, and why is this relationship crucial for overcoming life's challenges? [42:25]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your current spiritual goals. How can you align them more closely with the vision and purpose God has for your life, as discussed in Philippians 3? [46:00]
2. Identify a specific burden or worry you are currently carrying. How can you practice "casting your cares upon God" this week, and what steps will you take to trust Him with this burden? [42:25]
3. Choose one aspect of the fruit of the Spirit to focus on this month. What specific action could you take to cultivate it as part of your interactions with your family or community? [41:15]
4. Consider a recent challenge you faced. How did your faith act as an anchor during that time, and what can you do to strengthen your faith for future challenges? [50:56]
5. Think of a person who tests your patience. What is a short prayer you can say before the next time you interact with that person to help you maintain an attitude of gratitude and love? [51:50]
6. Reflect on a time when you felt disconnected from God's provision. What practical steps can you take to reconnect and trust in His divine power for your needs? [57:43]
7. How can you actively demonstrate love in your daily life, knowing that faith works through love? Identify one person you can show love to this week and plan a specific act of kindness. [42:25]
Devotional
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Day 1: Aligning Vision with Divine Purpose
Description: As we begin a new year, it is crucial to set a vision that aligns with God's purpose for our lives. Philippians 3 encourages believers to press toward the goal of becoming more Christ-like. This journey requires a clear vision, trust in God's direction, and hope that anchors us through life's challenges. The fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, and self-control—are markers of a life lived in alignment with God's will. These fruits are not mere resolutions but evidence of a life transformed by the Spirit. By setting a vision aligned with God's purpose, we open ourselves to spiritual growth and transformation. [41:15]
Bible passage: "For this reason, since the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God." (Colossians 1:9-10, ESV)
Reflection: What specific vision or goal can you set this year that aligns with God's purpose for your life? How can you actively pursue this vision in your daily actions?
Day 2: Casting Our Cares on God
Description: Our lives are like boats meant to float on water, not to be filled with it. This metaphor illustrates the importance of casting our cares upon God, allowing Him to remove the burdens that threaten to sink us. By doing so, we enable ourselves to live purposefully and victoriously. Trusting in God's direction and provision allows us to navigate life's challenges with confidence and peace. When we cast our cares on God, we acknowledge His sovereignty and invite His intervention in our lives. This act of surrender is a powerful step toward living a life of faith and trust. [42:25]
Bible passage: "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you." (1 Peter 5:6-7, ESV)
Reflection: What burdens are you currently carrying that you need to cast upon God? How can you practically release these burdens to Him today?
Day 3: Faith as an Anchor
Description: Faith acts as an anchor, securing us in the hope of eternal life and the abundant life promised by Jesus. This trust is not blind but is built on the assurance of His promises and the evidence of His faithfulness. Just as we trust in the value of currency, we must trust in the value of our relationship with Jesus. Our faith anchors us, providing stability and security amidst life's storms. By holding onto this anchor, we can navigate challenges with confidence, knowing that God's promises are true and His faithfulness is unwavering. [50:56]
Bible passage: "We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek." (Hebrews 6:19-20, ESV)
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to rely more on your faith as an anchor? How can you strengthen your trust in God's promises today?
Day 4: Embracing an Attitude of Gratitude
Description: Progress is not just about moving forward but about holding on to the growth we've already achieved. An attitude of gratitude helps us recognize God's blessings and maintain a positive outlook. By focusing on gratitude, we acknowledge the progress we've made and the ways God has worked in our lives. This perspective allows us to appreciate the journey and remain hopeful for the future. Gratitude is a powerful tool that shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have, fostering contentment and joy. [51:50]
Bible passage: "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, ESV)
Reflection: What are three specific things you are grateful for today? How can you cultivate a daily habit of gratitude in your life?
Day 5: Trusting in God's Provision
Description: God's divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life. Trusting in His provision allows us to thrive in His presence, purpose, and promise, reflecting His love and grace in every aspect of our lives. By relying on God's provision, we acknowledge that He is the source of our strength and resilience. This trust empowers us to face challenges with confidence, knowing that God has equipped us with all we need to live a life that honors Him. As we trust in His provision, we experience the fullness of His blessings and the joy of living in alignment with His will. [57:43]
Bible passage: "His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire." (2 Peter 1:3-4, ESV)
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to trust more in God's provision? How can you actively rely on His strength and resources today?
Quotes
Faith will heal the brokenhearted. Faith will cause you to do what God's called you to do. And so we stay in faith. Faith worketh by love. We know love conquers all. So while I'm having a hard time with self-control on this, I just don't have that joy. Well, hey, there's good news. It's the redemptive blood of Jesus Christ. [00:42:28] (25 seconds)
Once you put the value, what do you value? The Bible says where your heart is, there your treasure is also. Or where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. So if your heart is really on Jesus, you will see the value. And, man, you will invest. And not just invest, you will use it. [00:43:25] (23 seconds)
I press on to reach the end of the race. And I receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. And then it goes on. Let us. Let all who are spiritual manure. I mean, not. Mature. Mature. That does not say that. I'm going to fix my glasses and get better vision. No. [00:51:27] (29 seconds)
Wow. So it shows me right here. When you're mature, it's all in your what? Your attitude. It starts in your attitude. It doesn't start just, oh, how you start moving. It starts in your attitude. Like one of those sayings, if you think you're sick, get ready, you're going to be sick. [00:52:29] (26 seconds)
We're so gracious that God our Father said, send his son, Jesus Christ, to us. And so, when I read that, hey, we've got to have the right attitude. Have that right attitude. I believe God will make it plain to you. But we must hold on to the progress we have already made. Hey, don't go back. [00:56:03] (25 seconds)
His divine power, God's divine power, Jesus' divine power has given us everything you need. You have everything you need. So when you say, I just need a little bit of this. No, you already have it. You have it. Why? Because you are firmly anchored into Jesus Christ. He is the source. He has everything you need. [00:57:43] (29 seconds)
Jeremiah 17, 7 through 8, says it this way. The best is the one who trusts in the Lord. You've got to trust in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes. Why? Because it's connected to the source. [01:00:12] (21 seconds)
Abraham is the father of faith. This is a person that God called Abraham to leave his homeland, to leave what he, to leave what he knew, to leave what his security was. That's that security blanket. And go to a place that he would be shown. He didn't know exactly where he was going, but he knew he had to what? Go. [01:13:36] (18 seconds)
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