The desire for success is inside most of us. Untold numbers of books have been written claiming to offer the formula. Few, however, seem to achieve it. The keys to success are laid out by Paul in Philippians 3:12-14.
First, do not think you have already achieved it. The athlete who thinks he has arrived at the top often quits putting in the effort that got him there. Paul said, “Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected.” The body must be disciplined daily (1 Corinthians 9:27). Our Lord stated, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me” (Luke 9:23).
Second, forget the past. The apostle wrote, “forgetting those things which are behind.” Past sins can be forgotten after penitent baptism (Acts 2:38). Wrongs suffered at the hands of others should be left to be dealt with by the Lord (Romans 12:19). Joseph saw his brothers’ meanness as a means of God achieving his end (Genesis 45:5; 50:20). Past success is good, but it is possible to leave one’s first love (Revelation 2:4-5).
Third, have one single-minded goal. Paul phrased it, “one thing I do.” That one thing was, “I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” The prize for which he strove drove him to see death as gain (Philippians 1:21). He knew death was coming soon, yet did not fear because he looked forward to receiving a crown of righteousness from the Lord (2 Timothy 4:6-8).
Paul’s path can work for anyone willing to place himself under the Lord’s control. Keep working. Forget the past. Focus on reaching the heavenly home.
Gary C. Hampton