The Lighthouse Devotional
Author: Suzette Clarke
SCRIPTURE PASSAGE
“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” (Phil 3:13–14 NIV).
PERSONAL REFLECTION
This scripture reminds me that I have not and will not attain the goal of fully knowing Christ until I see him at the resurrection. But I can be assured of being transformed from one degree of glory to another, whether slowly or quickly, if I remain in Christ and seek him diligently. Only then shall I know him.
SCRIPTURE REFLECTION
What is it precisely that Paul has not taken hold of yet? He has not already reached his goal—he has not yet reached perfection (3:12), but he is in the race to do so. After years of serving Christ, penning numerous letters, and having visions, the Apostle says, “I want to know Christ” (3:10a). Paul views his pursuit of knowing Christ and being Christlike as running a race. Jesus lays hold of him on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1–9), stops him from persecuting the church, and changes his focus by making Christ his prize. Paul wants to know and live for Christ during his lifetime (1:20), and he looks forward to knowing Christ perfectly in the next life.
Paul reckons that knowing Christ involves not only knowing the power of Jesus’ resurrection but also participating in his sufferings (3:10b). Human beings do not like to suffer, but suffering is a part of the journey of knowing Christ. As runners in this race, we cannot look back. We must forget the past—the accolades, the hurt, and the pain—and not just look but strain towards the goal ahead, which will require our effort and exertion.
EXHORTATION
It is easy to live in the past when we cannot see God’s promising future in store for us. However, we must live by faith, not by sight (2 Cor 5:7), for without faith, it is impossible to please God (Heb 11:6). Therefore, take hold of and live by God’s great and precious promises. Continually turn your thoughts and focus to Christ. Forget the past and lay hold of your future in Christ, and you will come to know him.
PRAYER
Father, enlighten the eyes of our hearts so that we will understand the rich glories of the inheritance You have promised us (Eph 1:18). May we hunger and thirst for You and desire to know You more and more. Remove everything that will distract us as we gaze into Your face. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.