DAILY TEXT, From today Saturday October 9, 2021, Forgetting the things that are left behind, and reaching forward to the things beyond, I continue towards the goal (Phil. 3:13, 14).

DAILY TEXT, Today's Saturday October 9, 2021

Let's Examine the Scriptures Every Day 2021

Saturday, October 9, 2021

Forgetting the things that are left behind, and reaching forward to the things beyond, I press on toward the goal (Philippians 3:13, 14).

The apostle Paul did not allow himself to be distracted by his past achievements or the mistakes he had made. In fact, he said that forgetting “the things that are left behind” was essential in order to stretch to reach the things to come, that is, to finish the Christian career successfully. What could have distracted you? First, his impressive achievements in Judaism. But he considered such things as "a heap of garbage" (Philip. 3: 3-8). Second, the feeling of guilt for having persecuted Christians. But he did not allow this to paralyze him. And third, what he had done in his Christian service. He obtained very good results even though he had been imprisoned, beaten and even stoned, had suffered shipwrecks and had not had what to eat and what to wear. But he never thought he had done enough (2 Cor. 11: 23-27). Despite all his achievements and sufferings, he knew he had to move on. And we must do the same. w19.08 3 par. 5

What did Paul know he had to do to reach the goal?

Pablo was convinced that he would finish the race and reach the goal. As an anointed Christian, he expected to receive the award of the heavenly call. But he knew he had to keep going to get it (Philippians 3:14). To help the Philippians keep track of the goal, he gave them an interesting comparison.

How did Paul use the theme of citizenship to encourage the Philippians to move on?

The apostle reminded the Philippians that they had their citizenship in heaven (Philippians 3:20). Why was it important that they not forget it? In those days, Roman citizenship was highly valued. * However, anointed Christians had much better citizenship, allowing them to enjoy greater benefits. By comparison, Roman citizenship had little value. So Paul encouraged the Philippians with these words: "Conduct yourselves as citizens in a way worthy of the good news about the Christ" (Philippians 1:27, note). Today, anointed Christians are a magnificent example, as they press forward to achieve the goal of eternal life in heaven.

According to Philippians 4: 6, 7, what should we continue to do whether we hope to live in heaven or hope to live on earth?

We must move forward to reach the goal, whether it is to live forever in heaven or in a Paradise on Earth. No matter what our circumstances are, let's not look back or let anything stop us from progressing (Phil. 3:16). It may seem that our expectations are slow to be met or we may not have the strength we had before. We may have endured hardship and persecution for many years. Be that as it may, let us not worry about anything, but let us make our prayers and requests known to God. He will give us a peace we cannot even imagine (read Philippians 4: 6, 7).

What are we going to analyze in the next article?

Like a runner struggling to reach the finish line, let's focus entirely on the goal of finishing the race for life. As our strength and circumstances allow, let us continue to progress and do our best to achieve the wonderful things to come. What must we do to move forward in the right direction and at a pace that we can maintain? The following article will help us set appropriate priorities and ensure “the most important things” (Philippians 1: 9, 10).

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