A New Kind of Forgetting

"My friends, I don’t feel that I have already arrived. But I forget what is behind, and I struggle for what is ahead."  (Philippians 3:13, CEV)

What is Paul forgetting, neglecting, overlooking?  “What I once thought was valuable is worthless.”  (v.7)  Forgetting God gives birth to sin and pride.  Paul has reversed the equation.  Instead of neglecting God and valuing sins and his previous accomplishments (vv.3-6), he has now begun to seek God and neglect what he once valued.

How would I apply such forgetfulness to my life?  One thing I have found helpful is procrastination.  Instead of putting off what is good, I have been learning how to put off what I should not do.  Instead of a bold “No!”, I find a lazy “Maybe later” a good way to overcome some sins.

Nothing is quite as dangerous as hope placed on the wrong object.  Nothing is quite as strengthening as hope well-placed.   So I find Paul’s hope so powerful and encouraging: “Nothing is as wonderful as knowing Christ Jesus, my Master.” (v. 8)  Hope is not only found in what I look forward to, but also what I leave behind.