We keep moving toward what God has called us to, without dwelling on the past.
“Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”Philippians 3:13-14 (KJV)
What does “Pressing on” mean in Philippians 3:13-14?
Paul admits that he has not yet arrived. The Greek word for mark means a goal on a racecourse. He uses the image of a runner leaning forward toward the finish.
Going deeper
Paul is honest: I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. He does not claim to be finished. He describes a runner with his eyes on the line, not looking over his shoulder. This one thing I do: he is focused.
Two kinds of looking back can slow us down: regret over failures and pride over past success. Paul lets go of both. He reaches forward. Ask yourself what you are still carrying from the past that is slowing you down. Give it to God, and turn toward what is ahead. Take one step today toward the calling He has placed on you. It may be small, but keep moving, and keep your eyes on the goal.
Reflect
What from the past could you release today so that you can reach forward?
Pray
Lord, help me to forget what is behind and to press on toward what You have called me to. Keep my eyes on You. In Jesus' name, amen.
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