We learn by doing

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.  –Philippians 3:12 (NIV)
 
My dad had a phrase he used frequently with my brothers and me: “We learn by doing.” It usually followed an event where we had broken, wrecked, or ruined a tool, vehicle, or piece of machinery by using it in a way we shouldn’t have. Looking back, he was awfully patient. His philosophy matched that of one of my workplace mentors who used to say, “If you aren’t breaking anything, you aren’t learning anything.” Indeed, the idea in both cases was that of trying, failing, learning, and trying again. We’ll fix it or replace it or do without it, as long as we’re growing.
 
That’s the idea I get from Paul’s words here about “pressing on”. As we have said many times in this space, the transformation into Christ-likeness is an iterative process. Neither my father, nor my mentor were keen on repeating the same mistakes over and over, but both recognized that skills are built through practice and experience. And make no mistake – becoming like Jesus is a skill. It’s a skill that is aided by the presence and instruction of the Holy Spirit, but it is still a skill that requires practice.
 
Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. 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 3:13-14 (NIV)
 
What is the goal we are pressing on toward? To know Christ (Phil. 3:10-11). I cringe to think of things I have said and done over the years, many in the name of God. Paul did too (Phil. 3:4-8). And you know what? I’m not done making mistakes. Because I’m not done learning. As in any relationship, the knowing takes time. So give yourself some grace. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, find your takeaways, and try again.
 
All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained.  –Philippians 3:15-16 (NIV)
 
It’s a marathon, men. Stay in the game.
 
And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.  –Hebrews 12:1b-3 (NIV)