Straining Forward

by Khalilah Shelton

On a recent visit back to Cleveland I was reminiscing with some friends about college years and good times we had. I thoroughly enjoyed the time. It was good to reflect. Later I asked myself, “why don't we speak so enthusiastically and joyfully about the future?” That was about the third time the Lord had impressed upon me the fact that I need to look to the future more. I can easily recall the past, but how rewarding would it be if I prepared for what lies ahead? I look at the apostles, namely Paul, who had experienced all types of success and failure. He did not stay stuck on those things. In his letter to the Philippians, he says this, “…One thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 3:13-14)

I cannot be stuck on the success that I had in the past, I cannot dwell on the answered prayers of three years ago as if there is nothing more for me to do in Christ. I also cannot live in guilt or shame of past mistakes or transgressions. There is no life in camping out in the woods of pains of the past and constantly remembering the hurts of former friends and foes. The Lord does not want me to dwell there.  He does, however, want me to be mature in my thinking and living, pressing onward. He has a high calling for His children and we will not accomplish all that He has called us to do if we constantly look back and neglect what lies ahead. Verse 13 uses the term “straining” ahead indicating that it will not be easy, but knowing Christ is worth the work. He is the prize! 

What are you straining toward? What do you need to forget so that you may press on to the greater Prize?