Daily Devotions

Keeping the Vision

Scripture: "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 3:13-14 (NIV)

Illustration

Imagine a long-distance runner with eyes fixed firmly on the finish line. They don’t look back at the miles they’ve covered or let past stumbles slow them down – their focus is solely on the goal ahead. In our faith journey, God calls us to run with this same single-minded purpose, not letting the past weigh us down or pull us off course.

Reflection

Lent invites us to reset our focus on what matters most. We all carry things from the past – regrets, achievements, or hurts – that can hold us back. Paul reminds us we may not have "arrived" yet, but we can choose to leave what’s behind and press forward toward God’s calling. This isn’t about ignoring our past, but about not letting it define our future.

Challenge for the Day

Identify one thing from your past that’s keeping you from focusing on God’s calling. Write it down and symbolically set it aside. Today, take one small step toward something God has been nudging you to pursue – whether a new ministry, mended relationship, or growth in faith.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for the vision You’ve set before us in Christ. Help us release what lies behind and fix our eyes on the goal You’ve called us to. Give us courage to press forward, and guide our steps as we pursue Your purpose for our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.