By Emily K.
Confirmation Class of 2015
But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:13
This verse has been specially chosen for me by my parents, who have raised me in a strong faith even before the day I was born. Now that I am not a toddler and have grown with knowledge in my faith, I want to personally say for myself that I want to follow the same steps my parents have taken in their faith. I also know that this will not be an easy path. This verse will help me on my journey to become and maintain being a strong Christian believer.
But one thing I do: God wants us to concentrate on His plans that He has for us. Not to be caught up in the worldly things. In doing that, we have to pray and ask God what He is calling us to do and really focus on it, because even when we end up doing lots of stuff there is always going to be one thing I do: following and doing what God has called me to do.
Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead: This part of the verse means just like when you’re playing basketball and you’re down by ten points and there’s two minutes left in the fourth quarter, you forget about the score and do your best. You constantly move on, laying your burdens down at the feet of Christ and pushing forward to the next thing each day and not getting caught up on what’s been going on but focusing on what is ahead.
If someone has wronged you confront them privately and take care of it. We should never be quick to judge, but quick with forgiveness, grace and mercy; just as Christ has done for us. If we cannot forgive and move on we’ll be living a life of constant revenge against one another and ultimately pulling us away from Christ.
I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus: This is saying that has God made a plan for me, now I have to do it. Not running off at the first sight of danger, like when I play basketball and I play against a tall girl. I’m not going to let her height frighten me, I’m going to do my best to achieve the goal: winning and shutting her down. Just like in life I’m not only going to “say” I’m a Christian, but I’m going to live my life out as Christ has showed me.
It also means not to allow things to distract me. Just like when you’re running, your eyes are up constantly searching for the finish line. By this, I mean keeping my eyes up even when obstacles come my way. The devil’s goal is to distract us and keep me from pressing on. But with God’s help, I will win the prize.
This verse has helped me and will continue to help throughout my Christian journey. Because I believe Jesus is my Savior, and no matter how many times I sin He has and always will forgive me. I am very excited to say for myself that I am ready to be confirmed in my Christian faith and do what God has called me to do.
For more faith papers from the Confirmation Class of 2015, click here.
