Leaving the Past Behind: Pressing Toward Philippians 3:13-14
In the journey of life, we often find ourselves entangled by the past—be it our parents' mistakes, our own errors, setbacks, or missed opportunities. These shadows can hinder our ability to move forward. Yet, the profound wisdom offered in Philippians 3:13-14 by the Apostle Paul provides a valuable perspective on overcoming these challenges.
Forgetting What Lies Behind
Paul starts this passage by admitting he hasn’t yet mastered his journey, recognizing his ongoing growth and learning. His focus, importantly, isn’t on past imperfections but on future aspirations. He makes a conscious decision to let go of “what is behind.” This act of forgetting isn’t about erasing memories; it's about releasing the grip that past experiences have on us. While forgetting is challenging, especially for those among the 70% of adults in the U.S. who have experienced trauma according to the National Council for Behavioral Health, Paul reminds us that dwelling on past mistakes and trauma can stifle our growth.
The past should serve as a place of reference, not a residence. We learn from it, but we must not allow it to prevent us from moving forward.
Straining Toward What is Ahead
Paul describes his forward motion as "straining," which suggests significant effort and determination. In the Christian context, this isn't a passive existence but an active pursuit of a divine calling. For us, this might mean setting clear, achievable goals aligned with our values and purpose. It involves effort, focus, and determination to push past the inertia that often keeps us within our comfort zones, a theme I explore in my upcoming book, Twice Over a Man. It’s about crafting a future vision that excites us and pulling ourselves towards it with discipline and deliberate actions.
Paul’s ultimate aim is to "win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." This heavenly calling transcends mere earthly ambitions, guiding believers to a higher, more purposeful existence. By adopting this mindset, our personal and professional achievements become parts of a larger, spiritual journey—whether advancing in our careers, developing personally, or contributing to our communities. This perspective adds meaning to our endeavors and motivates us to persist through challenges and setbacks.
Final Thought
Embracing the lessons from Philippians 3:13-14 means seeing each day as a chance to advance closer to our goals, driven by a higher purpose. It involves:
· Letting go of past failures and focusing on future opportunities.
· Making daily efforts to progress towards our established goals.
· Viewing our endeavors as part of a larger spiritual calling.
Each step we take is not just about progress; it's about transformation and aligning more closely with our deeper purpose. Now, as you reflect on your own path, consider these questions to further explore how you can apply these lessons in your daily life.
1. What are the goals you’re straining towards today? Are they aligned with your deeper values and spiritual beliefs?
2. What obstacles do you currently face that require you to 'strain forward'? How can you approach these challenges with renewed determination?
3. How does your faith or personal beliefs influence your aspirations and motivations? Are there ways you can more closely align your daily actions with these core values?
Your answers to these questions may not only provide clarity and motivation but also forge a deeper connection with your spiritual journey and personal growth. Let us embrace the spirit of moving forward, not just to achieve, but to become what we are truly called to.