Philippians 3:13-14
This verse has always been a favorite of mine. Philippians 3:13-14 — “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
Have you ever tried to drive forward while looking in the rearview mirror? It doesn’t work well — does it? A quick glance will tell you everything you need to know, but dwelling there is dangerous. That’s why Paul, in his writing from prison to the church in Philippi, told them to forget what is behind and press on toward the goal in heaven.
Paul’s own past included persecuting Christians, imprisoning them, and even being an accessory to the martyrdom of Stephen. Because of his past, he referred to himself as “the least of the apostles.” Paul became a Christian through a dramatic conversion experience on the road to Damascus, where he was a persecutor of Christians. A blinding light surrounded him, and he heard the voice of Jesus asking why he was persecuting him. Paul was left blind and was led to Damascus, where a disciple named Ananias restored his sight, baptized him, and instructed him to preach about Jesus. (Acts 9)
We know all of our sins are forgiven and forgotten by God the moment Jesus enters our hearts. The enemy of our souls loves to remind us of past sins and failures to try to defeat us. Paul says to forget the past and strain toward what is ahead! Don’t let yourself get stuck, don’t let the sun go down on your anger, forgive your past self and those who’ve hurt you just as you’ve been forgiven. God sees you as perfect and holy as He is holy. You are his cherished child.
You could talk with a godly counselor, trusted friend, or pastor if you’re struggling with shame. Sometimes just releasing the past by talking it out will help you find the freedom in Christ to press on. Freedom doesn’t mean denying the past but refusing to be defined by it. Growth won’t happen if we’re hampered by regrets and shame.
We can press on toward the goal of heaven because of God’s love, which empowers us to share that love with others. Amen? Amen.
Deb Hill
EFCC Member