Trajectory: Where Are You Headed? - Philippians 3:17–21
Rejoice Always Series – Part 16
In physics, a trajectory is the path an object takes under the influence of external forces. If you know the starting point and the direction it’s heading, you can often predict where it will land.
The same principle applies spiritually.
We’re not here to judge anyone’s final destination. But if you continue on the current path you’re walking—the same habits, priorities, beliefs, and influences—where will that lead?
That’s exactly the question Paul is addressing in Philippians 3:17–21:
“Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern. For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame—who set their mind on earthly things. For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ…” (vv.17–20)
Part One: The Warning – Two Trajectories in Life
Paul draws a stark contrast: some are heading toward eternal glory, others toward destruction.
“Whose end is destruction…” (v.19)
This is not about appearances or short-term wins. It’s about where you’re ultimately headed.
He gives the reason many go off course:
“…whose god is their belly…”
This refers to living by impulse—making decisions based on appetite, desire, or emotion.
We see this reflected in today’s culture:
“Follow your heart.”
“Do what makes you happy.”
“That’s my truth.”
“I’m just not feeling it.”
These phrases sound empowering, but they often mask a dangerous mindset: if it feels right, it must be right.
The Bible counters that clearly:
“The heart is deceitful above all things…” – Jeremiah 17:9
“From within, out of the heart…proceed evil thoughts… All these evil things come from within and defile a man.” – Mark 7:21–23
In other words: your feelings may be real, but that doesn’t make them right.
Author D.A. Carson puts it plainly:
“People do not drift toward holiness… but we do drift toward compromise.”
Part Two: Follow the Right People
“Join in following my example…” (v.17)
We all follow someone—even those who claim they don’t. Everyone is influenced by mentors, ideologies, trends, or communities.
Paul urges the Philippians to follow godly examples.
The Bible echoes this again and again:
“Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 11:1
“Do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.” – Hebrews 6:12
Following the right people doesn’t mean idolising them—it means learning from their patterns.
Part Three: Walk with the Proven
“Note those who so walk…” (v.17)
Paul isn’t asking you to follow blindly—he’s calling for observation.
Who is already living the kind of life you want in Christ?
Who’s got the marriage, the character, the fruitfulness you admire?
He’s saying, walk with people who are heading where you want to go.
“Remember those who rule over you, who have spoken the word of God to you, whose faith follow, considering the outcome of their conduct.” – Hebrews 13:7
But this takes humility:
“The humble He guides in justice, and the humble He teaches His way.” – Psalm 25:9
As Tim Keller said:
“Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.”
Final Reflection: Direction, Not Intention
Andy Stanley once said:
“Direction, not intention, determines destination.”
So ask yourself today:
Where do I want to be—in life and in eternity?
Is my current trajectory taking me there?
Who is already on that path—and can I walk with them?
Your trajectory matters. Your appetites matter. Your mentors matter.
Let’s fix our eyes on Jesus and press on toward the prize.
“For our citizenship is in heaven… who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body…” – Philippians 3:20–21
Keep walking. The path may be narrow, but the destination is glorious.