As we step into a new year, filled with new hopes, challenges, and opportunities, believers are called to press on with unwavering faith. The start of a new year is a time for reflection, renewal, and recommitment to our spiritual journey. Drawing inspiration from Philippians 3:13-14 (MSG)—“I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back”—this message encourages us to keep moving forward, no matter what lies ahead.
The Call to Persevere
Life is a marathon, not a sprint. The Apostle Paul reminds us that in our walk of faith, perseverance is key. He speaks of straining toward what is ahead, indicating that the journey is not always easy, but it is always worth it. As we enter a new year, we may carry with us memories of past struggles or triumphs, but Paul’s words urge us to focus on what lies ahead—the higher calling in Christ.
The year ahead may bring unexpected trials, but perseverance empowers us to press on, trusting in God’s plan. Perseverance is not passive; it is an active commitment to keep going, to keep growing, and to keep believing.
Forgetting What Is Behind
Paul’s exhortation to forget what is behind does not mean we ignore the past. Instead, it means we refuse to be defined or hindered by it. Whether the past year was filled with victories or setbacks, we are called to learn from it and move forward.
Isaiah 43:18-19 (MSG) reminds us: “Forget about what’s happened; don’t keep going over old history. Be alert, be present. I’m about to do something brand-new. It’s bursting out! Don’t you see it?” God is always at work, bringing forth new opportunities and blessings. To press on, we must release the weight of past regrets and embrace the newness of what God is doing.
Pressing Toward the Goal
The goal Paul speaks of is not a worldly achievement but the eternal prize of life in Christ. This goal gives our lives purpose and direction. As we begin a new year, it’s important to set our sights on things above. Colossians 3:1-2 (MSG) says, “So if you’re serious about living this new resurrection life with Christ, act like it. Pursue the things over which Christ presides. Don’t shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ—that’s where the action is. See things from his perspective.”
Pressing on requires focus. Distractions will come, but keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus helps us maintain our spiritual momentum.
The Armor of God: Our Tool for Perseverance
In our previous study, we explored the Armor of God. Perseverance requires being spiritually equipped. Each piece of the armor—truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God—empowers us to endure hardships and keep moving forward.
Prayer, too, is essential. It keeps us connected to God, provides strength, and aligns our will with His. Philippians 4:6-7 (MSG) reminds us: “Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.”
Biblical Examples of Perseverance
Paul:
Throughout his ministry, Paul faced persecution, imprisonment, and hardship. Yet, he persevered, driven by his mission to spread the Gospel. His life exemplifies pressing on toward the goal despite immense challenges.
Job:
Job endured unimaginable suffering but remained faithful. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance in faith, trusting God even when the reasons for trials are unclear.
Ruth:
Ruth’s decision to stay with Naomi and follow God into an unknown future required great perseverance. Her faithfulness led to blessings beyond her imagination.
Nehemiah:
Despite opposition and threats, Nehemiah persevered in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. His determination and trust in God allowed him to complete the task.
Practical Steps to Press On in the New Year
Set Spiritual Goals:
As you set personal and professional goals for the year, don’t forget to set spiritual ones. These might include committing to regular prayer, studying the Bible, or serving others more intentionally.
Stay Connected to God:
Begin each day with prayer and Scripture reading. This keeps your heart aligned with God’s purposes and provides strength for the journey.
Surround Yourself with Encouragement:
Fellowship with other believers provides support and accountability. Being part of a faith community helps us persevere.
Celebrate Small Victories:
Perseverance is about progress, not perfection. Celebrate the small steps forward and trust that God is working in your life.
Keep an Eternal Perspective:
Remember that this life is temporary, but our hope in Christ is eternal. Keeping this perspective helps us endure trials with grace.
Perseverance in S.O.L.A.D.™
In S.O.L.A.D.™: Soldiers of Light Against Darkness™, the characters often find themselves in situations where perseverance is crucial. Whether facing physical battles or spiritual struggles, they press on with faith, knowing that the ultimate victory belongs to God. Their journey reminds us that perseverance is not about never facing difficulties but about continuing to trust God through them.
Conclusion
As we embark on this new year, let us press on with perseverance, trusting in God’s strength and guidance. Forget what is behind, strain toward what is ahead, and keep your eyes on the prize of life in Christ. The journey may be challenging, but the destination is glorious.
Soldier of Light, the year ahead is full of promise. Stand firm, press on, and shine His light brightly in a world that needs hope.
Happy New Year, and may your faith grow stronger with each step!
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