Day 1

Understand their story

Read Philippians 3:12-21. Notice the contrasts Paul uses. 

  • How does Paul describe himself in this passage? 
  • How does Paul describe his goal and how he pursues it in this passage? What does he NOT do, and what does he DO? Notice the descriptive words and running imagery.
  • Why do you think Paul tells the Philippians to imitate him? 
  • In contrast, how does Paul describe those who the Philippians should NOT imitate?

Pray in supplication today that you would strive forward toward the goal and prize we are called to in Christ.

Day 2

Understand their story

Read Philippians 3:12-21 again today. Think about what questions you have about the text as you read.

  • Now read Philippians 3:1-11. How is the earlier part of this chapter connected to what Paul is explaining and teaching here? 
  • Why does he stress that he is not yet perfect? 
  • Look at all the references to Jesus in this passage. Write a list of all that we learn about Him (what He has done, who He is, and what He will do).
  • How do these truths about Jesus encourage you today as you consider your heavenly citizenship?

Pray today in adoration of our Saviour Jesus and all that His power enables Him to do. 

Day 3

Connect to His story

Read Philippians 3:12-16. In this passage Paul asserts that he is NOT already perfect, but he is straining forward to what lies ahead (sanctification/glorification). Read the following passages and note what you learn about the Christian call to growth, sanctification, and maturity in Christ. 

  • 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
  • Galatians 5:16-25
  • Ephesians 4:17-24 

In summary, how would you describe what it looks like to “press on” and to “hold true to what we have attained”?

Pray today in supplication that through the work of the Spirit you would press on and persevere in faith!

Day 4

Connect to His story

Read Philippians 3:17-21. Is Paul showing conceit and pride when he commands the Philippians to imitate him? Look up the following passages and note what you learn about who and why we should imitate people.

  • 1 Corinthians 4:14-17, 11:1. Why should the Corinthians be imitators of Paul? 
  • 1 Thessalonians 1:6-7. Who did the Thessalonians imitate? And who did they then become examples to?
  • Hebrews 6:11-12. Who are the recipients to imitate? Why? What would be the opposite of imitating these people? 

Finish your time today reading 1 Corinthians 15:35-58 about our bodily resurrection, when Jesus will transform our bodies to be like His glorious body. 

Pray in adoration today as you consider the glory that is to come when we are with Jesus. 

Day 5

Apply to our story

Read Philippians 3:12-21 one last time today. 

  • Reflect on your own walk of faith. What words would describe how you walk? Are you straining forward like Paul or are you distracted by earthly appetites? 
  • Are there believers in your life that you look up to? What kinds of things do they do that you could imitate as you seek to follow Christ more?
  • Reflect on your heavenly citizenship. How should your citizenship in heaven influence how you live, what you think, and what kinds of things your heart is drawn to?

Pray today in confession as you consider the times you have walked out your faith half-heartedly, or even away from Christ, instead of racing towards the goal.