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.
‘One thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth into those things which are before.’ One thing Paul did – there are three parts to this one thing: He forgot the ground he had covered in the race (2Cor. 9:1-15). He knew, as should we, that one cannot waste time over the past (3:13). He reached forth to that which was before him in the race. He explained that he strained every nerve and muscle and use every ounce of his strength to win, thus putting in all effort to complete what he started in obeying God in writing the epistles and serving the congregations by setting Christ forth as the perfect example. He knew, as should we, that his future depended on it: we are running for our lives (3:13). He pressed toward the mark (3:14), that is, he pursued the white line in the stadium upon which all runners must keep their eyes fixed, lest we are disqualified for the prize (3:14; 2Cor.9:1-15). To be able to live godly lives as we are commanded to do (Matt. 5:48; 2Cor. 13:11; Col. 1:28; 4:12; Heb. 13:20-21; Jas. 1:4; 1Pet. 1:16; 5:10), we need to focus on what lies ahead and forget the this of the past that can bring only discouragement through past disappointments, rejections and failures. Failing to do so will lead to not reaching the high calling of God.
‘High calling of God’ – Heavenly calling; God calling us on high.
Living the Word 