Philippians 3:13 But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
Luke 9:62 Jesus said to him, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.”
Hebrews 12:1-2 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
“Just as a little child is a perfect human being, but still is far from perfect in all his development as man, so the true child of God is also perfect in all parts, although not yet perfect in all the stages of his development in faith.” (Muller)
When Spain led the world (in the 15th century), her coins reflected her national arrogance and were inscribed Ne Plus Ultra which meant “Nothing Further” – meaning that Spain was the ultimate in all the world. After the discovery of the New World, she realized that she was not the end of the world, so Spain changed the inscription on her coinage to Plus Ultra meaning “More Beyond.” In the same pattern, some Christian lives say, “Nothing Further” and others say “More Beyond.” Herein is the dilemma in the Christian’s life – “Nothing further” or “More beyond”. Some will live as though there is no need for further growth. They have obtained a level of satisfaction and comfort in their lives and see no need to actively pursue growth/maturity. It is very shallow thinking that comes to the conclusion that “I am saved and going to heaven end of story”. Too often this is where Christians land. They take off with a thunderous thrust only to land softly and never take flight again. It is in flight where we draw closer to Jesus Christ, and where we start to gain more understanding and knowledge of the mighty grace, mercy and love He showered on us. In-flight is where we allow the Holy Spirit to control the speed and direction. It is where we are a willing passenger as it were, trusting in the pilot. While there might be the temptation to take control of the flight, it is by faith, trust, reliance, and obedience that we relinquish any thought of taking control. If I look back let it be to remember the saving grace that brought me to redemption and salvation and all of the mighty works God has performed.