One Thing
Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead. Philipians 3:13
It is good for us to be reminded of the truths that can make a big difference in our lives. Here Paul gives us a clue into what he focused on to get all God had for him. For we give power to whatever we focus on. There was “one thing” that changed everything for Paul. That was looking forward not looking back. To lay hold of the future we have and to let go of the past.
Learn from the past…yes. Live in the past…no. You cannot go in two directions at the same time. Chose to go forward. Even though you may have some very big memories of the past, you still need to reach forward. Some of our memories are good, some bad. Either way, what is done is done. The past is history but the future is a blank slate.
The only way you can lay hold of what God has for you is to walk forward by faith. Jesus said, “No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God (Luke 9:62).” So keep looking forward. Keep reaching forward. Keep going forward. All that God has for you is yet ahead. The best is yet to come.
This “one thing” that Paul focused on kept him going in the right direction. It can do the same for you. Of all the “things” you might do, make sure you do this “one thing”. Put your past behind you and move forward.