Pastor Stanley

22nd JULY 2026

STRAINING TOWARD WHAT IS AHEAD

Philippians 3:13 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, (NIV)

There is always something ahead for anyone who has a vision. Where you are is not a destination. Apostle Paul referring to going to heaven as his destination said "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," There was so much behind him, what he had accomplished with the Gospel, but there was also so much ahead of him what he could do with the Gospel and going to heaven. He had to choose where to focus, and he chose to focus on what lies ahead.

So much is behind you, the very good moments, and the not very good moments. Focusing on either of these which are in the past would make you complacent. It beclouds vision. Learn to focus on what is ahead and strain towards it. 

See what is ahead. There is always something good ahead when you see in the light of the Gospel. Deliberately see what is ahead and strain towards it. Straining is not fun or so easy. It means applying energy, wisdom, force, determination, passion, focus and faith. It is putting in effort; doing what you should to get where you should. 

Something good is ahead of you. Don't be be-clouded by your past or present. See and forge ahead. Hallelujah!

CONFESSION

The Spirit of God has brought me into a glorious present and a wonderful future is ahead of me. I take my eyes of what is behind, I look forward to what is ahead, and through the leading and enablement of the Spirit I take hold of them, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

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