I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 3: 14

Paul’s statement to forget those things which were behind was not an announcement that he had decided to quit. On the contrary, he was not saying: “Forget it! I’m through!” He was saying: “Forget it. No matter what, I’m going through!” At this critical moment in his life, he was redirecting his energy and redoubling his efforts to go forward.

He realized that this was not going to be easy. That is why he had to press. Arriving at his God given destination was not going to be a cake walk. In fact, even with the help of God, it was going to be quite difficult. It would require blood, sweat and tears. It would mean sacrifice and suffering. It would necessitate his pushing beyond the limits of what he had previously considered impossible.

Furthermore, the press was worth it because it involved a prize. Athletes do not compete for competition sake alone. They do so for the trophy, the ring, the championship and the prize. On the front side, when pain and perspiration are the regular order of the day, the pressing seems futile and fruitless. However, when they stand victorious at the award ceremony, they confess that the prize was worth the press.

Finally, the prize was more than a wreath or laurel of victory. It was the high calling of Christ Jesus. It was the natural life he had been called to live and the eternal life he had been saved to enjoy.

Of course, times are tough and the going gets rough. However, we must keep our eyes on the prize and remind ourselves that the race is not given to the swift or the strong but to him or her who endures to the end. The only way to get to the end is to press on!