“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.” (Philippians 3:12-16)

Today, I am feeling a little frustrated. The quarantine is feeling very long right now and the stress of trying to keep myself, my wife and my kids healthy (while not truly being able to protect them), while at the same time trying to keep both Nita and I working is feeling a little much. And working through a house purchase at the same time just adds to the stress.

As we’ve discussed over the last few days, Philippians really centers around the idea of participating with Christ, which means joyfully participating in His sufferings, which we do by suffering for the gospel. This seems extra hard because the suffering we are facing right now is more about keeping ourselves safe than fighting for our friends’ eternal homes. At least that’s how it seems.

We don’t understand why God is allowing this to happen and what He is doing in the midst of it. All we know is that we need to be Christ’s body in whatever way He calls us. Being in the middle of a race or a journey is often confusing – you can’t remember everything form the beginning and the end is still to far to see; but you do the best you can to push through. All we can do is press on toward the goal and trust that God will see us through. Remember, friends. This is temporary. Heaven is eternal (both now and later). Focus on being in the presence of Christ and put one foot in front of the other.

I hope these are an encouragement for you. Is there anything specific you are doing to keep your mind focused on Christ and good things as you endure this situation? Please share.