Philippians 3:14
I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

Application: 

In Philippians 3:12-21, Paul says he hasn’t yet reached full maturity, but he is pressing on toward knowing Christ more and maturing. Paul makes every effort to take hold of that goal because Christ has taken hold of him (3:12). He strives to get closer to the goal for which Christ has grabbed him. He is not satisfied with where he is; he wants to keep growing. He has a holy discontent that keeps him pressing on. Therefore, Paul forgets what is behind and reaches for what is ahead (3:13).*

To become an excellent Christian and fulfill your kingdom purpose, you, too, must have a short memory and a clear direction. So, what aspects of yesterday must you forget? All of them—the good, the bad, and the ugly. You’ve got to let go of your successes, your failures, and the ways others have hurt you.*

It’s not that you don’t remember the past; it’s that you don’t let the past control your life. Don’t spend too much time looking in the rearview mirror. A much bigger piece of glass, the windshield, should have your focus because where you’re going is far bigger than where you’ve been. The way to get over yesterday is to keep a forward focus and press on. That’s why Paul makes the prize promised by God’s heavenly call in Christ Jesus his goal. Notice he’s looking to the future, not the past.*

Just as a runner faces resistance to his goal, we too will encounter resistance from the devil, our enemy, and his minions. He is the father of lies and will always try to convince you that you are not enough, not smart enough, that you have done too many bad things, that God has given up on you, and that God cannot use you. These and many more are lies from the enemy, attempting to smear your identity in Christ and disqualify you from the plan God has for you. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you (1 Peter 5:8-9). Let the Holy Spirit lead you, not your past!

*Reference: Tony Evans, The Tony Evans Bible Commentary (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2019), 1244.

To God be the glory!

Our Lord Jesus Christ created everything! By Him, For Him!

“The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

Disclaimer

When God inspires me, I write or post articles that glorify God. I invite you to view this post as a Bible study. Like the Bereans in Acts 17:11, I encourage you to search the Scriptures to determine whether what I have posted is true. Always consult your church ministers regarding biblical matters. I am not a professional writer, so there may be grammatical or spelling errors. I strive to write as clearly and efficiently as possible. My prayer is that this message will inspire you to seek the Lord with all your heart and bring glory to His Holy name. Your brother in Christ, Ricardo.