Stay In The Press – February 2K14 WTLB

By Missionary Pamela Hairston

Philippians 3:13-14

13 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,

14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

Many persons enjoy remembering the past. There are many things about the past which are important to me. Surely, there are many things about the past which are important to you also. Our past, and remembering, makes us what we are today. Everything which has happened to us is a vital part of who and what we are. Yet, there is much about our past which is only properly forgotten. We have littered the past with the mistakes of daily living. We have shed our tears, and caused the shedding of tears by others. As much as I recall the joys and victories of the past, I also remember the failures which mark my journey. To make a list of those things which I should have done, but have not, would be too painful. To make a list of those things which I ought not have done, but did, would be even more painful.

Paul's statement to the Philippians 3:13-14 gives us that action which is essential for us: "forgetting what lies behind." This is the time of year that gives all of us an opportunity to wipe the slate clean and start fresh. It’s important to “finish strong!” but at the same time, let us not carry all mistakes and failures of the past year into the New Year. We must not allow the failures of the past to cloud our vision of the future. Instead, grow in the knowledge of God by concentrating on our relationship with Him now.  Refocus your focus…as we begin this New Year and STAY IN THE PRESS!