This is the “monthly verse” Kristina and I have written on our calendar for July: “Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead.” (Philippians 3:13)

Life can feel like a long race with unexpected turns. There will be painful stumbles and moments of breathtaking joy. The apostle Paul, writing from a prison cell, reminds us that the Christian journey is not about perfection but about perseverance. Philippians 3:13 is not the cry of someone who has already arrived but the humble confession of a man still running the race.

Paul’s words resonate deeply with our hearts because we all have something in our past that we would like to forget. Regrets, mistakes, missed opportunities, or even spiritual highs that we have tried to live off for too long. The danger is that we can become so focused on the past, whether good or bad, that we stop moving forward. Paul says he forgets what is behind, not because it no longer matters, but because it no longer defines him.

There is wisdom in that. God does not call us to dwell on what we cannot change. He calls us to grow and to press on. The phrase “reaching forward to those things which are ahead” paints the picture of an athlete leaning forward with all their might, eyes locked on the finish line. There is intentionality and effort in that movement. Following Christ is not passive. It is a daily pursuit, a stretching of our hearts toward a higher calling.

This verse is not about pretending our past did not happen. It’s about choosing not to let our past have the final say. In Christ, we are not defined by where we have been but by where we are going. Grace gives us the power to persevere and reach toward God’s purpose for our lives.

Maybe today you feel stuck. Perhaps you feel unworthy to move forward. Let this verse serve as a gentle reminder that you are not yet finished. There is more ahead. God’s mercies are new every morning. So take a deep breath and press on with purpose. The race is not over, and you are not alone.

You are still running. Keep going. Christ is worth it.

By: Justin Odom