Despite facing severe challenges as a child, Wilma Rudolph achieved great success. She was born prematurely, weighing only 4.5 pounds. She suffered from scarlet fever and polio as a child, which weakened her leg and required her to wear a brace. Despite all of this, Rudolph was determined to succeed in athletics and began running at a young age. She eventually became a world-class sprinter, winning three gold medals at the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome. Rudolph’s story is a tale of determination and perseverance, and she is remembered as one of the greatest athletes in history.
“Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 3:13-14
What a powerful story and verse to lean into as we enter the new year. We may have experienced joys and triumphs or faced challenges and setbacks. It’s easy to get caught up in thinking about the past, and all that has happened, but as the verse from Philippians 3 reminds us, it is essential to forget those things behind us and reach forward to the things ahead.
This doesn’t mean we should completely ignore the past or the lessons it taught us. Instead, it means we should avoid dwelling on it or letting it hold us back from moving forward. The past is gone, and we cannot change it. But we can choose to let it go and focus on what’s ahead. As we look to the future, we are called to “press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” This means that we shouldn’t be content to coast through life but should actively pursue the plans and purposes God has for us. This may involve setting new goals and making new strategies for the coming year, but it also involves trusting in God’s guidance and direction.
SPIRITUAL THOUGHT
As we begin this new year, let’s not be held back by the past. Instead, let’s embrace the opportunity to press on and pursue God’s plans for us. May we be renewed in the spirit of our minds and find strength and purpose as we seek to serve Him.
MY PRAYER
Lord, we are so grateful for the hope that we have in You. Your love and grace give us strength and comfort, even in the most challenging times. Thank You for being our constant source of peace and for guiding us on the path toward wholeness. We pray that You will be close to us and our loved ones throughout the new year. Amen.
