Pressing Toward The Mark!
Devotion by Pastor Shane - April 8, 2025
Scripture:
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."
In these verses, the Apostle Paul reveals a humble and focused heart. Despite all he had accomplished in ministry and endured for the cause of Christ, he admits he has not yet "apprehended"—he has not arrived at perfection. Paul acknowledges that the Christian life is a journey, a race that requires continual pursuit of Christ and His purposes.
He says, "this one thing I do"—notice the singular focus. Paul wasn't distracted by the many things that could have drawn his attention. His eyes were set on one goal: Christ. He first had to forget those things behind him to reach forward. That means letting go of past sins, regrets, and even successes that could hinder forward momentum. Yesterday's failures don't disqualify you, and yesterday's victories don't complete you. Both must be surrendered to press on today.
Then Paul declares, "I press toward the mark." The word "press" suggests effort, struggle, and perseverance. This race is not easy, and it's not passive. It requires us to lean in, fight discouragement, resist distractions, and run purposefully. The "mark" he speaks of is the ultimate goal—Christ Himself and the fullness of life in Him. The "prize" is not worldly recognition but the eternal reward of knowing Christ, being found in Him and fulfilling God's high calling on our lives.
Let this devotion remind you to press on. Don't dwell on what's behind you—God is doing something ahead of you. You have a calling, a purpose, and a finish line worth running toward. Keep your eyes on Jesus, and don't stop moving forward.
Prayer:
Father in Heaven, Thank You for calling me to a life of purpose in Christ. Help me to forget the things that are behind and give me the strength to reach forward to what You have in store. Stir in me a holy determination to press toward the mark, to pursue Jesus with all my heart, and to live faithfully in the calling You’ve given me. When I feel weary, remind me of the prize that awaits and the joy of walking with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
