April 21, 2023: But One Thing I Do

"...But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead" (Philippians 3:13, ESV)

In a world of many things to do, many options to try, and many things to be done, Paul does one thing. He forgets what is behind him, and he pushes for the prize. The past is passed! Do not look back. Keep your eye on the prize! And lean into it. Those who have run in races for their school or team have heard their coach scream, "Do not look back; what matters is the finish line. Keep your eyes on that!"  

He who looks back is distracted by what is behind him, concerned by what is behind him. A runner knows his concern is to be the first over the finish line. The finish line is what is in front of him. He strains to keep pushing ahead and leaning into his race.  

As believers, we must remember that God took hold of us for a specific purpose. That purpose is our mission; to be like Jesus. Like Paul, we live to obtain the resurrection from the dead, and everything not connected to that goal is cut off. We toss it aside like rubbish, never to be picked up again.  

Do that often enough, and you will be found running the race, winning the race, and obtaining the prize! It is a high calling to all who are in Christ Jesus!