Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
-Philippians 3:12-14
Paul was incredibly transparent about his journey. He made it clear that he had not yet reached perfection. This was a bold disclaimer in the face of those who claimed spiritual superiority. Paul knew that despite all his accomplishments, he had not yet “arrived.” For Paul, perfection was not a trophy he could claim, but a journey of continual surrender and growth in Christ.
Instead of settling for spiritual complacency, Paul chose to “press on.” He recognized that his transformation was far from complete, and he eagerly sought to “take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of [him].” When we consider this, it invites us to reflect on our own journey. Are we content with where we are, or do we press forward, trusting God to keep transforming us?
Paul’s focus was not on his past, even his impressive religious background and heritage. He left behind the pride, the self-righteousness, the misguided attempts at earning God’s favor. When Paul describes “forgetting what is behind,” he speaks of letting go of his past legalism and self-centered pursuits, straining instead toward what lies ahead – the prize of knowing and becoming like Christ.
When we’re “apprehended by Christ,” everything changes. The Holy Spirit transforms our hearts, turning our lives upside down. The old ways of striving for approval, of self-made righteousness, fade into the background as we step into a new way of living. Where there was once darkness, light breaks in. Sadness gives way to joy. Anger and resentment dissolve into kindness and forgiveness. This transformation isn’t by our own power, but because Christ has grasped us with His life-giving grace.
As we move forward, let us continue to “press on.” Not because we are perfect, but because Christ’s love compels us. The journey may be difficult, it certainly was for Paul… but the prize – gaining Christ and becoming like Him – is worth every sacrifice we could ever make. With eyes fixed on the One who has already won our hearts, we strain ahead, leaving behind what cannot compare to the surpassing worth of knowing Him.
When I survey the wondrous cross
on which the Prince of glory died,
my richest gain I count but loss,
and pour contempt on all my pride.
“When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” – Isaac Watts (1707)
Former Blackout Artist 