What is the prize of the high calling of God?

The Prize of the High Calling of God

       Philippians 3:14 – "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."

        The Christian journey is often described as a race, and the Apostle Paul beautifully captures this in his letter to the Philippians. He speaks of striving forward, not aimlessly, but with a clear goal in mind—the "prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." But what exactly is this prize, and how can believers pursue it?

Understanding the High Calling

       The “high calling of God” refers to the divine invitation extended to every believer to follow Jesus Christ. It is not a worldly or ordinary calling; it is a heavenly, holy, and eternal calling. God calls us out of darkness and into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9). It is a call to salvation, sanctification, and ultimately glorification. This calling sets us apart for God’s purpose, and it comes with the promise of eternal life.

       Paul understood this deeply. He had achieved much by human standards—education, reputation, and religious standing. Yet, he considered all of it as loss compared to knowing Christ (Philippians 3:7-8). He made it clear that the Christian’s true aim is not success in the eyes of the world, but fulfilling the divine purpose for which God called us in Christ.

What Is the Prize?

       The “prize” is the culmination of God’s promise to His faithful ones. It includes:

1. Eternal Life: The greatest reward for believers is everlasting life with God (John 3:16). This means more than just living forever—it means living in perfect peace, joy, and communion with God.

2. Christlikeness: Paul speaks earlier in Philippians 3 about wanting to “know Christ and the power of His resurrection.” The prize includes being conformed to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29), sharing in His glory (Colossians 3:4), and receiving a glorified, incorruptible body (1 Corinthians 15:52-53).

3. Heavenly Rewards: Scripture often references rewards for faithful service (2 Timothy 4:7-8; Revelation 22:12). These may include crowns, positions of responsibility in God's kingdom, and other honors that reflect our obedience and love for Him.

4. God's Commendation: Perhaps the most touching part of the prize is hearing God say, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). That approval from our heavenly Father is priceless.

Pressing Toward the Mark

       The word “press” in Philippians 3:14 implies strenuous effort. Paul didn't claim to have “arrived” spiritually. Instead, he described a process of continual growth. The Christian race is not about perfection but about persistence. It's about forgetting the past—failures, sins, even accomplishments—and keeping your eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).

       This pressing forward involves daily choices:

● Choosing righteousness over sin.

● Seeking God's will above our own.

● Trusting Him in trials.

● Staying faithful in prayer, Word study, and service.

Encouragement for the Journey

       The race of faith can be exhausting. At times, it may feel like the finish line is far off. But Paul reminds us that the prize is worth it. The temporary struggles of this life cannot compare to the glory that will be revealed in us (Romans 8:18). When we fix our eyes on the eternal goal, we gain strength to keep running, no matter the obstacles.

       The “prize of the high calling of God” is not just a future reward—it is a present motivation. It reminds us that our lives have a divine purpose and eternal significance. As we run this race, let us run with perseverance, fueled by hope and love, pressing ever forward toward the upward call of our Savior.