Sermon Central
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Leave Behind The Past, Reach For The Future
Contributed by Saumiman Saud on Feb 18, 2025 (message contributor)
LEAVE BEHIND THE PAST, REACH FOR THE FUTURE
Heavenly Father, I thank You for giving me the opportunity to enter a new year. May I love and serve You diligently, Father. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
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."
We cannot change the past, but we can improve the future. The Apostle Paul expresses 3 things that must be considered:
Forget what is behind
Our experiences are different, some sweet and some bitter. Success and failure color human life, making us stronger, firmer and more mature. Paul experienced it; he was not an ordinary person, he was a Pharisee, smart, taught by the famous Prof. Gamaliel. Before his conversion, he was known for persecuting Jesus' followers. After conversion, he was admired, his preaching and ministry were commendable. He deserved recognition. But all that has passed and must be forgotten.
Focus on what is ahead
Don't be lulled by the past, direct and focus on what lies ahead. Think about what needs to be done. Paul likens life to an athlete running, who cannot have divided thoughts. Last year's championship and trophy are in the past. Today is a new arena, the competition is not over.
Run toward the goal to get the prize
If distracted, not focused, we will surely lose. Paul says we must run. If we stop, it means we're creating our own finish line, with no prize. We waste time, money, and everything, making this competition futile.
Whether studying at university, working in an office, being a boss in a company, or serving in God's field like Paul, all are activities that deal with other humans. There are various human temperaments, requiring double patience and sacrifice; especially when facing people who are physically adults but have childish characters. Don't give up, don't stop, keep fighting.
My Father in Heaven, today I re-enter a new arena. As I begin this year, You never promised that I would be free from difficulties and problems. But I know for certain that You never leave me. In Christ's name I pray, Amen.
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