[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.” — Philippians 3:13 - 14 KJV
Paul, the greatest preacher in the New Testament, is known by many Christians for his great exploits in the Lord. But he didn’t get to that level of his calling without some life principles set by himself, even though he credited grace for all his exploits (see 1 Corinthians 15:10).
In Philippians 3:13, he mentioned one of them. He said, “… forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before…”. So one of Paul’s life inspirations, even as a minister of God, was to put pressure on moving forward in his calling and avoiding past achievements in ministry to derail him in the pursuit of more.
Whether you’re a young minister, pastor, businessman or even a student desiring to reach the peak of your calling in Christ, do what Paul did – forget those things behind you (the hurts, disappointments, pain, achievements, projects completed, etc.) and reach forward to achieving the vision God keeps painting in your mind. I don’t mean abandoning projects. No! Maintain the working systems in what you’re doing with diligence and wisdom. But press on for higher progression. That is how you desire and work on rising in your calling.
God hasn’t destined anyone to remain low in His kingdom. Your calling may not be directly related to serving in God’s house. But don’t belittle yourself and think high levels are for the elite. That doctrine isn’t of God.
God hasn’t destined you for smallness but for greatness. Continue serving faithfully in whatever you’re doing. Even if your progress is a single step a day, it’s still progress. God will elevate you.
You’re a blessing.
Prayer:
Father, remove every naïve thought of mediocrity in my life. In the name of Jesus, I pray for the revelation of a bigger vision, even bigger than the ones I’ve seen and done before in Your power. In the name of Jesus. Amen!
Devotional Code: KGD – 2023 – 310