One of the greatest dangers for Christ-followers is not outright rebellion, but slow spiritual drift. If we don’t decide our priorities early, we end up reacting to whatever demands our attention in the moment. The apostle Paul understood this reality deeply. Despite his dramatic conversion, spiritual maturity, and incredible impact, Paul boldly admits that he has not “arrived.” Instead, he presses on.

Kingdom-first people live with forward momentum. They refuse to dwell on the past—whether failures, wounds, regrets, or even successes—and instead strain toward what lies ahead. This pursuit is not about trying harder to be better people. It’s about moving closer to Jesus. As we draw near to Him, He transforms not just what we do, but what we want.

To kickstart the year spiritually means choosing intentional movement: raising the mark, letting go of what’s behind, and committing our lives to a purpose greater than ourselves: the Kingdom of God.

1. When you hear the phrase “press on,” what emotions or images come to mind for you?

2. What are some areas of life where it feels easy to drift instead of move forward with intention?

3. Paul says he is forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead. What kinds of “past things” tend to hold people back most—failures, regrets, wounds, successes, or something else?

4. Spiritual growth is not about working harder to be holy, but about pursuing Jesus. Why do you think effort-based spirituality often leads to frustration or burnout?

5. How have past failures—or fear of future failure—shaped the way you approach your relationship with God?

6. What does it look like, practically, to “raise the mark” in your walk with Jesus without slipping into perfectionism?

7. We are either moving forward or backward—there is no neutral ground. Where do you sense God inviting you to take a next step forward right now?

This week, take intentional time to identify one specific area where God is calling you to press on rather than stay stuck.

Write down:

• One habit, mindset, or fear you need to leave behind.
• One intentional practice that will help you move closer to Jesus (worship, Scripture, prayer, community, serving).

Choose one small, concrete step and commit to it this week. Share your step with someone in the group if possible, and pray for perseverance—not perfection, but forward movement.