Philippians 3:13 – Brothers and sisters, I myself don’t think I’ve reached it, but I do this one thing: I forget about the things behind me and reach out for the things ahead of me.
On the first day of every new year, millions of people discuss and make decisions on changes they intend to make for that year. Unfortunately, this is also the day lots and lots of people also experience deep regret for things they realize they didn’t accomplish in the previous year; unattained goals, unfulfilled promises, hampered spiritual growth, the list goes on. When Satan tries to harass you by reminding you of your past, do as Jesus did in Matthew 16:23. Speak out loud in boldness and with authority! Say “…Get thee behind me, Satan….” Speak to those thoughts like the enemies they are, sent from the devil. Do not listen to them!
Rather than regret what you didn’t do, decide to spend some quality time with the Lord and focus on what you were able to achieve and examine your growth. Stop wallowing in regret about something in the past that you cannot do anything about! Shake it off and start thanking God for the opportunity presented to you for a new, fresh start. This new opportunity is a golden chance to make serious changes in your life and not repeat the mistakes of the previous year.
Meditate on the words of the apostle Paul in Philippians 3:13. Today let your focus be on “…forgetting those things which are behind…”. Put it behind you. Put it out of your mind. Wipe it out. Erase it from your memory. Forget it. Stop thinking about it. Be oblivious to it. The whole idea is to “Leave it behind and never revisit it!”
Make today the first day of a brand-new beginning. Repent from past failures. Receive forgiveness and begin to reach for the wonderful possibilities that lie before you.
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, I ask for and I receive your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ of Nazareth is the Son of the Living God, that He is Lord over all, that He was resurrected from the grave and still lives. Thank you for this new opportunity for me to make serious changes in my life. I ask for and receive your help to fulfill Your will for my life. Today I make the decision to put aside memories of past failures by faith and reach to the future You have planned for me. Lord, send me the Helper, Your Holy Spirit to guide me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.