Contend for More, Content With LessSample

Day 2: Contend for More – The Call to Persevere and Pursue

Scripture References: Genesis 32:22-28, Philippians 3:12-14, Jude 1:3

Contending for more in the Christian life means to strive, struggle, and press on toward the fullness of what God has for us. Contending isn’t about striving in our own strength or seeking more for the sake of personal gain. Instead, it’s a deep, determined pursuit of God’s promises, purpose, and presence. Throughout Scripture, we see examples of people who contended with God or in life circumstances, refusing to settle for less than His best. One powerful example of contending is found in the story of Jacob, who wrestled with God in Genesis 32. Jacob, on the verge of reuniting with his estranged brother Esau, found himself wrestling with God through the night. He refused to let go until he received a blessing, and this encounter changed his life forever. Jacob’s persistence reflects the kind of contending that God invites us into—a determination to hold on to Him, to press through challenges, and to believe that He has more for us.

Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, also speaks about pressing on. In Philippians 3:12-14, he writes, “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.” Paul recognized that his journey with Christ was ongoing. Despite his many accomplishments and profound revelations, Paul never considered himself to have “arrived.” He continued to press on, striving toward a deeper relationship with Christ and the fulfillment of his divine calling. This perspective challenges us to adopt a similar mindset in our own walk with God.

God calls us to contend in many areas of life. This might include contending in prayer, as we bring our needs and the needs of others before Him. It might mean contending for our marriages, families, or communities, trusting God to bring healing, growth, and transformation. It could involve contending for our spiritual growth, seeking to know God more deeply and to live out our faith more boldly. Yet, it’s crucial to remember that we don’t contend alone. God strengthens us through His Spirit and His Word. Jude 1:3 urges believers to “contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people.” This call to contend is a call to persevere, to hold fast to the truth, and to trust that God’s promises are worth the fight.

Reflect on areas of your life where you feel God calling you to contend. Perhaps you’ve faced discouragement, setbacks, or disappointments. Contending doesn’t mean ignoring these realities, but it does mean choosing to press forward, believing that God’s promises are worth the struggle.

Reflection Questions:

1. In what areas of your life do you feel called to contend, or to press on, despite obstacles?
2. How does the story of Jacob wrestling with God inspire you to persevere in your own faith journey?