DO NOT LOOK BACK you’re not going that way. Paul said this one thing I do, “Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but 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
Well, that’s actually two, but one in Paul’s mind: forgetting the past and pressing on in His strength and mercy. Paul didn’t look back because he was too busy keeping his mind upward, pressing on towards that beautiful and eternal victory crown. What Paul knew was there’s nothing good in dwelling on past sins and mistakes. The past will and can hold you captive. You can get stuck in the prison of your mind for past sins and shame. And if this happens, you’re not any good for the kingdom. Don’t spend energy on trying to make your past look better. It is gone. It is what it is and you did what you did. Own it, receive forgiveness and press on.
I was a disgusting, despicable, selfish person before Christ; but I don’t look back. I press on. I have shame and regret. I did a lot of things wrong. I caused a lot of pain. I had horrible things done to me; but I don’t look back. I press on. Take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ and press on. Expose every lie and press on. Forgive and live in forgiveness and press on.
You cannot change anything in your past! Put it under the blood, live in His grace and press on. Stop digging up old bones and press on. You’re not who you used to be, look unto Jesus and press on. Let people catch you pressing on rather than woefully stewing on your past. You cannot even rest on your laurels, past victories are still in the past. Set up a memorial and press on. Don’t get caught up in being the high school prom king. That’s gone. Some people live in their “glory days” and can never get past high school. Dude. That was years ago. We live in the now and we have a future. You have a race to run and you are not finished yet.
To Learn More About Pastor Crystal please visit the Leadership Page
