Philippians 3

“Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own” (v12). Paul was clear that Jesus had already claimed him as “his own”; by the free gift of grace, not because of his own righteousness, Paul belonged to Christ. In response, Paul wanted to pour his heart into experiencing that salvation and becoming more like Christ: “that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death” (v10).

“I press on toward the goal ...” (v14). Secure in God’s love and forgiveness, we can hope for real change in our lives.