Don’t Look Back

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 3:13–14

Wherever you are on your healing journey today—keep yourself in a healthy place by staying mentally and emotionally in the present moment or thinking about the future.

These two options are far wiser choices than spending any time rehashing old injustices. Ruminating over what cannot be changed only leads us to emotionally revolve around the past. As the apostle Paul coached us in today’s scripture, there’s far greater reward in thinking about the future.

I had to learn how to focus on the future—and it didn’t come easily. I had to mentally stretch and strain “to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me” (Philippians 3:12). I had to realign my thoughts with the brand-new life Jesus gave me now here on earth and what would be in eternity with Him in heaven. What a glorious future to look toward and take hold of!

As you move forward in Christ’s healing, open your eyes to the present and to your glorious eternal future. It will fuel you with hope as you press on toward the goal.

Lord, I forget what lies behind and I press on. I press forward toward all that You have for me.