Daily Prayer for the Lord's Day: January 19, 2025 (Philippians 3:12-16)
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. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you. Only let us hold true to what we have attained. (Phil. 3:12-16, ESV)
Prayer: Grant to your redeemed people, almighty God, your kindness and grace today as we seek to honor you with our lips and lives. We praise you for your infinite wisdom in saving sinners in such a way that no flesh will ever glory in your presence. You have given us the righteousness of your beloved Son by faith alone in his finished work. You give us the Rock of our salvation in the Lord Jesus. You provide us with faith to believe that he has accomplished what we could not so we can be reconciled to you and praise you as we are made to do. We confess that we often place too much confidence in the flesh. We confess that we frequently think our labors and efforts merit your attention. In those times, we sin against you and do violence against the work of your Son. Please forgive us for those thoughts. Yet, Father, we know that though we are justified by faith alone, it is not a faith that is alone but always stirs up the graces and labors to serve you with diligence and delight. As those apprehended by Christ, we are to live to apprehend him.
We know we have been bought with a prize and are no longer our own. Though we know we fall short of it, we want to strive and labor for your kingdom and glory. Please help us strip away all this life's encumbrances and pursue you with all our hearts. Please help us strive for that call we long to hear: "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." Please help us to keep our eyes on the prize, which is to see our Savior, to be with him, and to be like him for eternity. Please help us focus our minds and hearts on your kingdom and righteousness and deny ourselves each day. Please give us what you command and grant more of the Eternal Spirit so we can serve you fully each day. We pray these things as weak creatures of dust. We plead these things through the name of the One who did not rest but served, labored, persevered, and strained toward the goal of saving his people from their sins. Amen.
Scripture Meditation: Phil. 3:12-16