Look Ahead
This morning in my Bible study journal, I focused on Philippians 3. This verse really stood out to me. All too often we focus on the past. Whether that’s our childhood trauma, past relationships, or things we wish we did differently in life.
We need not to dwell on the past, we need to use our past to help bring us closer to Christ. Our past does not define who we are. It may have influenced parts of us but it does not define us. What does define us is our relationship with Him.
I pray my brothers and sisters will lean into what’s to come and not focus on the past. Put your faith in Him and focus on serving and honoring Him.
Reading Philippians 3 this morning truly resonated with me, especially when it comes to letting go of what's behind us and pressing on. It’s easy to get stuck replaying past mistakes, hurts, or even just what we wish we had done differently. I know I’ve been there, dwelling on missed opportunities or past heartbreaks, feeling like those moments defined too much of my present. But as the image on this post beautifully illustrates with Philippians 3:13-14, '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.' This isn't about ignoring our past or pretending it didn't happen. Instead, it’s about choosing not to let it hold us captive. Our past experiences, good or bad, can be powerful teachers. They can strengthen our resolve, deepen our empathy, and most importantly, draw us closer to God's unfailing love. Moving forward with faith isn't a sudden leap; it's often a series of small, incremental steps, much like building faith itself. Sometimes, it's simply choosing to pray instead of worry, or to read a comforting Bible verse instead of spiraling into regret. One verse that always helps me is Isaiah 43:18-19: 'Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.' This verse reminds us that God is constantly working, offering new beginnings, even when our circumstances feel like a 'wasteland.' Another powerful scripture for navigating tough transitions is Jeremiah 29:11: 'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.' When the past feels overwhelming, clinging to this promise can provide immense comfort and courage. It shifts our focus from what we lost to what God is preparing for us. Practically, how do we 'forget' and 'press on'? For me, it involves a few things. First, acknowledging the hurt or regret, but then intentionally surrendering it to God in prayer. I often write down what's bothering me and then symbolically tear it up, or simply voice it to Him. Second, I try to fill my mind with positive, faith-building content – whether it's worship music, a good devotional, or connecting with fellow believers. And third, I actively look for small ways to serve others or engage in activities that bring me joy and purpose. These aren't huge 'faith leaps' but rather 'faith incremental codes' – small, consistent actions that gradually shift my perspective and strengthen my spirit. It's about remembering that our identity isn't rooted in our past mistakes or even our past achievements, but in being 'in Christ Jesus.' He is the hope ahead, defining who we truly are and what we are called to become.
See more comments