TeaTime Devotional June 10th, 2025

Written By:  Morgan Wright

Scripture: Philippians 3:13-14 NIV

“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.”

Testify:

In this passage, Paul reflects on his journey of faith, emphasizing the importance of moving forward rather than being held back by past failures or successes. He acknowledges that he has not yet reached perfection but remains committed to pressing on towards the ultimate goal of eternal life with Christ. This scripture resonates with many who have faced challenges and setbacks in their spiritual walk, reminding them that growth is a continuous process. I can recall most recently me studying for a test for my future and I failed.  In the moment I felt a series of emotions, sadness, anger, frustration, and self-doubt.   I wanted to stop and quit, but something on the inside reminded me not to give up.   I pressed and signed up to take the test again, and I passed.    This scripture was a real-life testimony for me. 

Edify:

This scripture encourages believers to focus on the future and what God has in store for them. By forgetting the past, we liberate ourselves from regret and the burdens of previous mistakes, allowing us to embrace the new opportunities that lie ahead. The imagery of "pressing on" conveys a sense of determination and perseverance, urging us to keep our eyes fixed on our divine calling and the heavenly prize awaiting us.   Press and stretch.   Press your way and stretch yourself out of your comfort zone. 

Apply:

In daily life, this passage can be applied by reflecting on personal goals and spiritual growth. We can identify areas where we may be dwelling on past mistakes or successes that hinder our progress. By consciously letting go of these burdens and focusing on our relationship with God and His plans for our future, we can cultivate a spirit of resilience. Setting specific spiritual goals, such as regular prayer, studying scripture, or serving others, can help us "press on" and align our lives with our calling in Christ Jesus.