Jordan B. Peterson, in his book 12 Rules of Life, writes: “You drag your years behind you like a running dog with tin cans tied to its tail.” The weight of the past restricts a person from moving forward in the right direction. The result could be aimlessness and futile wandering. The older a person grows, the weight of the past increases, the speed diminishes, and the destination becomes fuzzy. St. Paul, from his life experience, gives us a solution for this. (Philippians 3:13-14)
One thing: Paul was clear that he had to do one thing. Multi-tasking in spiritual life is not advisable. Paul understood his call, talents, spiritual gifts, education, skills, and opportunities, and harnessed all towards one thing. It was to preach the gospel in places where Christ had not been named. He did not want to build on someone else’s foundation. (Romans 15:20)
Forget the past: The dog running with tin cans should stop and detach those cans. However, the dog is unable to stop; in fact, it tries to accelerate its speed instead. Many people are unable to forget and forsake the past and move forward. It could be successes, accomplishments, and achievements, but all should be behind as one moves forward. Others are imprisoned by defeats, hurts, abuse, suffering, sickness, loss, grief, etc. When Joseph was summoned from prison, he came out. (Genesis 41:14)
Focus on the Lord: Paul’s focus was on the Lord, who is seated in Heaven. Hence, he looks up toward the Lord, from whom his help and sustenance come. (Psalm 121:1) He not only expects help, but also perceives the prize, for his obedience towards the upward call. Yes, God has a great purpose for each believer’s life. No one is useless; all are contributors to His Kingdom.
Press towards the goal: Without effort, pain, and diligence, nothing could be achieved. Paul has to put his effort, discipline his body, and make it obedient to the spirit. (I Corinthians 9:27) No pain, no gain. There is no glory without the cross.
Am I moving from aimlessness towards the heavenly goal?