Forward - Part 2

READ TOGETHER:

• Philippians 3:12-14

DISCUSS:

1. Describe a time when you wanted to quit something, but you pressed on to finish. Describe the change(s) in your mindset from the start to the finish.
2. How does Paul's attitude toward spiritual growth in this passage inspire you to keep running your race of faith? What significance does the phrase "press on" hold for your personal journey? Reflect on a moment when you pressed on despite challenges. How did it impact you spiritually?
3. How does “forgetting” past sins and failures positively impact our spiritual life? Why is letting go of our past difficult? Why is it possible through Christ? Why do we often hold on to guilt and shame from our past?
4. What role does perseverance play in the context of faith? In what ways do you relate to Paul’s pursuit of knowing Christ more deeply?
5. Discuss the difference between “winning” the race of faith and “finishing” it. Which is more important and why? Discuss the process of acknowledging sin (confession/repentance) and straining forward toward growth in Christ?
6. How does the concept of reaching the upward call of God in Christ Jesus resonate with your personal race of faith?

PRAY:

• Pray that the Lord will give you the wisdom to leave the past behind, and strain toward the goal of becoming more like Him.

PRACTICE (on your own):

1. Write down three ways you can cultivate a mindset of continuous spiritual growth, making Christ your central focus (i.e. prayer, studying Scriptures, joining a group, etc.).
2. Make a list of past sins and failures that keep you from striving toward Christlikeness. Prayerfully determine to leave those things behind to move forward in Christ.
3. Discuss with your small group what it might be like one day to stand before Christ after finishing the race of faith.

DIVE DEEPER (on your own)

1. Read: 1 Timothy 6:11-12; 2 Peter 1:5-8; Psalm 138:8; Isaiah 51:1; 1 Peter 3:11-13; 2 Corinthians 7:1; Ephesians 1:4
2. What do the verses above teach us about leaving the past behind, and reaching upward toward the goal of becoming more like Jesus?

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