Thursday, September 22, 2016

Pressing On

“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 (NKJV)

Our office recently completed the company’s values and culture training. One of its concepts (“Be Here Now”) encourages people to let go of past regrets and future worries and focus on the present.  As a Chrisitan, I don’t worry so much about the future, but I still struggle with regrets about my past (especially things that happened before I was walking with the Lord).  I know that as a redeemed child of God, my sins are forgiven but the consequences and heartache of my mistakes and poor decisions remain.   

When I’m in despair over my past, it’s good to remember that there is “no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1).  I know that if I’m feeling condemned, it’s because of the enemy, not God.  I don’t want Satan to rob me of my peace and joy, so I take a stand against the great accuser!

I also take to heart Paul’s exhortation to put our past behind us and press on towards our call in Christ.  We aren’t to dwell on our mistakes and failures because if we let ourselves be distracted by our past, we may miss what God has for us today and tomorrow. So I purpose in my heart not to let my past hold me back from living fully for God every day!

Thankfully, our great God doesn’t waste anything.  He can work something positive from even our regrets and poor choices as long as we give them to Him.  His word says “all things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28).  Like a tapestry seen from the back that’s just a bunch of knots and hanging threads, when God’s purposes unfold, the beauty of the bigger picture He creates becomes apparent.


I’m entrusting my past and my regrets to God (along with my present and my future) and pressing on to His upward call.  Will you join me?

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