Pressing Toward the Goal (PM)

Scripture Reading:  Philippians 3:7–16

Introduction      

A.  When we set goals, we do so in areas that are important to us.

B.  We have short-term goals and long-term goals, and it is important for us to have reasonable expectations relative to the time and energy that will be required to meet them.

Discussion

I.  We need to make sure that we set the right goals.

A.  We read of Bible characters who have set the wrong goals (Luke 12:16–21; 10:38–42; Matthew 19:16–22; Galatians 1:10).

B.  We read of others—like Nehemiah (2:5), Daniel (1:8), and Jesus (Luke 19:10)—whose goals were good.

C.  To set our goals, we must first determine what is important to us (Matthew 6:20).

II.  There are some basic principles for reaching goals.

A.  We will never succeed in meeting goals without adequate structure and planning (Luke 14:26–33; Matthew 13:20–22).

B.  We must put our goals ahead of everything else (Matthew 10:37–39).

C.  We must be willing to sacrifice anything that comes in the way of success (Luke 19:8–10; Philippians 3:8–9).

D.  Especially when we are weary, we must keep our eyes on the goal (Philippians 3:14; 2 Timothy 1:12; 4:8; Galatians 6:7).

Conclusion

A.  As a Christian, are you on the road to success?

B.  Because time is swiftly running out for each of us (Ephesians 5:16), let us never stop pressing toward the mark!