Focus on this One Thing

"No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us." Philippians 3:13-14 NLT

In a heartwarming story published by Maine News last week, it was reported that Tyrone Fulgham, who lost a leg after being hit by a motorcycle in 2021 while training for a marathon, will race in the Beach to Beacon 10K on August 5. The lifelong runner learned how to walk again with a prosthetic leg but said, “I tried to run, but it wasn't working, so I went to the next best thing.” But at $8,000-$10,000, a custom handcycle was out of his reach. Undeterred he won a grant from the Challenged Athletes Foundation earlier this year, which covered most of the cost. But he said he admitted to breaking into a whole new sport has been a learning curve. Especially when it comes to upper body strength, turns, and going up hills… "I don't quit. I am always looking forward, never looking back," Fulgham quipped… Fulgham said he plans to spend the next several weeks getting used to his hand cycle and then plans to increase his training sessions. He said that come race day he will cross the finish line.

And you know, when it comes to the pursuit of crossing the finish line, Tryone isn’t the only person who’s ever been determined to never give up, "always looking forward, never looking back." Paul said that he was focused on this one thing, "Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead." You see, Paul knew that he couldn't dwell on his past mistakes and failures or change anything that had happened in his life thus far if he wanted to "press on to reach the end of the race." Rather, he had to put all his effort into working to receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Jesus Christ, was calling him... and us. This was something he knew he would not achieve until that final race day when he sprinted to the finish and broke the tape. 

So keep running the race my friend. When you're faced with hills, hurdles and speedbumps, don't quit. You may have to run a little different but keep moving forward, determined and undeterred until you reach that final finish line. You'll be so glad you did when you take hold of the "heavenly prize" that awaits every faithful runner who refuses to give up. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we will have many trials and tribulations along this race of life. Help us to remember that although we will make mistakes, we can't dwell on them but only use them as stepping stones. Remind us that by Your strength, we can keep pressing on no matter what happens and cross that final finish line. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!