Daily EncouragementSample

“I press on.” “It is a hunting word meaning ‘I pursue’; it is also used of foot-racing” (R. P. Martin). It perfectly describes Paul’s indefatigable intention to reach the goal and gain the prize.

“I press on.” This is response to the call of God - “God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” It is not a mere invitation. It is a call - the call of a king. It is irresistible, like the compulsion of a great love:

Whoso has felt the Spirit of the Highest
Cannot confound nor doubt Him nor deny.

“I press on.” This implies that there is ground to be covered, and that untiring concentration is required. It is the expression of a deep desire to plumb the depths of union with Christ. Paul knows who he has believed, (2 Tim. 1:12), yet still he cries, “I want to know Christ.” It is a dominating passion, the “one thing” to which the many things are subservient.

“I press on.” This speaks of a goal to be achieved and a prize to be won. The prize is not defined. It may be a “crown of righteousness, of life, of glory” (2 Tim. 4:8; James 1:12; 1 Pet. 5:4); ultimately it is nothing less than Christ himself:

Life with its way before thee lies,
Christ is the path and Christ the prize.