Philippians 3:12-21

“Only let us hold true to what we have attained” (v16). Paul reminded the Philippians that they had attained salvation, citizenship in heaven (v21), through faith in Jesus, not through their own efforts. They should remain steadfast in their faith, as they pressed forward toward maturity (v12-15). Paul said that the Christian life was like a race, it required effort, but not the effort of laws, rituals, and prideful identity. Instead, devotion to Jesus included walking daily with Him and a willingness to suffer (v10, 17).

“I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own” (v12). We “press on” in response to the love and mercy already poured out on us by our Savior.