Philippians 3:13-14 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

This is one of Paul’s greatest testimonies. Paul is saying that he hasn’t arrived, but he is not going to quit. He is going to keep pressing forward, desiring to be conformed to the image of Christ (Rom. 8:29).

Paul has been saying that he could win in any contest of boasting in the flesh. But Paul considers all things done in the flesh as dung. We don’t boast about what goes in the toilet. He is not going to rest on his achievements, nor let past sins and hurt ruin his future. He is not going to keep score nor harbor grudges. Paul doesn’t want anything to harm his relationship with Christ. Philippians 3:10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;

How about you?

• Is it possible for you to have a similar testimony as Paul’s?
• If the Christian life is like a marathon, how are you doing in your race?
• Why are runners told to not look back? Has looking back hindered your progress in running your race?
• Is it your desire to know Christ better? What can you do to make it so?

Let’s commit today to press forward in our relationship with the Lord and with others.

Philippians 3:3 For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.

Ron Cox | Director of HOPE Ministry