Keep Reaching Forward
Be encouraged by today’s Scripture reflection and prayer.
Today's Scripture
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.
— Philippians 3:13–14 (NIV)
Reflection
When I was a child, we were always playing some sport or running around playing games to win. I was a good swimmer from a really young age. My brother and I would splash around the neighborhood pool. So around the age of 12, the community had a swim meet, and although I had been swimming for quite some years, winning was not something that I presumed. I knew I had to work toward it, and work I did. For every game, I set out to do my best, swim the hardest, the fastest, and so I did. And guess what? I won.
Thinking back to that hidden memory, I understand with clarity what the Apostle Paul was stating.
So many think this passage is about sinless perfection. But Paul already explained earlier in the chapter that even though he was flawless in following the law, that kind of righteousness had no value or power. His desire was to know Christ and the power of His resurrection, to suffer and share in His death.
He understood that he had not received the end of it. None of us will until we see Jesus again. But we do not look back, especially not as if we have already arrived. As long as we are here on this earth, there is still more.
There is more to learn. More to grow. More ways to become like Jesus.
The spiritual life is not a stagnant one. It is a continual pressing. It is both beautiful and hard. And if we are going to stay in this race, we must fix our eyes ahead, toward the goal, toward Christ. That is where our prize lies. That is what is worth all the effort, the striving, and the suffering.
And with God's help, we will keep pressing forward.
Today's Prayer
Father, thank You for calling me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Help me not to look back at past failures or even past victories as if I have arrived. Give me strength to keep going. Give me clarity to see the goal and grace to keep pressing on. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Before You Go
Spiritual growth takes time. And it takes movement. We do not grow by staying still or resting in yesterday's efforts. Paul reminds us that while we are here, we are in a race. A race that is fueled not by works, but by grace. A race that leads to glory.
Jesus Himself modeled the focus and perseverance that the race requires. He endured the cross for the joy set before Him. And now we follow Him in that same spirit. Step by step. Day by day.
Take a moment to reflect:
What past events or failures might be holding you back from pressing forward?
Are you measuring your growth by past wins or present hunger for Christ?
How can you stay focused on the goal today?
The race is not over. Keep reaching forward.
Yesterday’s Devotional
