God's Glory Church

“Forgetting what is behind and hastening to what is ahead, I chase.” — Philippians 3:13-14

While jogging in the forest, I tried to cut short and ran along an unfamiliar path. Wondering if I had suddenly gotten lost, I asked a runner running the other way if I was on the right track.

“Yes,” he answered confidently. However, seeing my confused look, he quickly added, “Don’t worry, I’ve already tried all the wrong ways! It’s okay, it’s part of running too.”

What a wonderful description of a spiritual journey! How many times have I drifted away from God, succumbing to temptation and being distracted by secondary things? However, God forgave me each time and helped me to move on, knowing that I would stumble again. God knows our tendency to go astray. However, He is always ready to forgive if we confess our sins and allow His Spirit to change us.

The apostle Paul also knew that all of this is part of the journey of faith. Fully aware of his own sinful past and present shortcomings, he still had to strive for Christlikeness (Phil. 3:12). “But only,” he added, “forgetting what is behind and hastening to what is ahead, I rush to the goal” (vv. 13-14). Stumbling is part of our journey with God; it is through our mistakes that He perfects us. His grace helps us, forgiven children, to persevere.

What mistakes can you confess to God today? How does His assurance of forgiveness help you persevere in your journey of faith?

God, thank you for your mercy. Help me to lead a life that pleases You, knowing that Your Spirit is working to make me like Your Son.

Author: Leslie Koh