Crossover: Leaving The Past And Embracing The Future Series

CROSSOVER: LEAVING THE PAST AND EMBRACING THE FUTURE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Philippians 3:13-14

Key Verse: “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13-14)

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 43:18; Isaiah 43:19; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Lamentations 3:22-23; Proverbs 4:25-27

INTRODUCTION

Crossing over into a new season requires intentional letting go of the past. Many believers carry regrets, failures, and disappointments that weigh down their faith and limit God’s blessings in the new season. However, God calls His people to move forward with hope, leaving behind anything that hinders progress.

Scripture emphasizes the importance of forgetting past mistakes and pressing forward toward God’s promises. This principle ensures that we do not remain trapped in previous defeats but instead embrace the future God has prepared.

This message will show practical and spiritual steps to release what is behind and position yourself for breakthroughs, divine favour, and a fruitful new season.

1. FORGETTING THE PAST IS ESSENTIAL FOR PROGRESS

You cannot fully embrace God’s plan while holding onto what is behind. Letting go is the first step to freedom and forward motion.

a) RELEASING REGRETS – Dwelling on past mistakes creates spiritual and emotional heaviness (Philippians 3:13). Release them to walk in freedom.

b) LETTING GO OF DISAPPOINTMENTS – Disappointments can blind you to future blessings (Isaiah 43:18). Focus on God’s new work.

c) FORGIVING OTHERS AND YOURSELF – Forgiveness removes spiritual obstacles (Matthew 6:14-15). Peace positions you for progress.

d) MAINTAINING A FORWARD-LOOKING MINDSET – Anticipate God’s promises rather than dwelling on setbacks (Proverbs 4:25-27). Vision drives action.

Biblical Example: Peter, after denying Jesus, was restored and became a mighty apostle because he left the past behind (John 21:15-19).

2. EMBRACING NEW OPPORTUNITIES REQUIRES FAITH

Moving forward demands trust in God’s plan and supernatural confidence that the best is ahead.

a) TRUST GOD’S PROMISES – God’s Word assures you of future provision and breakthroughs (Isaiah 43:19). Expect new things.

b) FOCUS ON DIVINE VISION – Spiritual clarity comes from seeking God’s guidance (Proverbs 3:5-6). Let Him direct your steps.

c) STEP OUT IN OBEDIENCE – Faith without action remains stagnant (James 2:17). Move deliberately in God’s plan.

d) RECEIVE GOD’S STRENGTH – Rely on the Spirit to overcome fear and hesitation (Philippians 4:13). Strength empowers movement.

Biblical Example: Joshua led Israel into the Promised Land because he trusted God and acted on His instructions (Joshua 3:5-17).

3. LEAVING THE PAST ENSURES A FRESH START

A fresh start requires ending old cycles to prevent repetition of setbacks.

a) TERMINATE OLD PATTERNS – Stop repeating mistakes or unhealthy behaviours (2 Corinthians 5:17). Change begins now.

b) RENEW YOUR MIND DAILY – Align your thoughts with God’s Word (Romans 12:2). Transformation sustains success.

c) SEIZE DIVINE FAVOR – A new beginning attracts supernatural opportunities (Psalm 102:13). Expect God’s intervention.

d) MAINTAIN GRATITUDE FOR PAST LESSONS – Thankfulness opens doors to blessings (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Lessons prepare you for growth.

Biblical Example: David began his reign with focus and gratitude despite previous failures, ushering in a new season of victory (2 Samuel 5:1-5).

4. PRESSING TOWARD THE FUTURE BRINGS BREAKTHROUGH

Faithful pursuit of God’s plan ensures that the future holds fulfilment, promotion, and divine alignment.

a) PURSUIT OF GOD’S HIGH CALLING – Keep pressing toward your divine purpose (Philippians 3:14). Persistence guarantees results.

b) STAY COMMITTED TO GOD’S PLAN – Avoid distractions that hinder progress (Luke 9:62). Commitment unlocks favour.

c) EXPECT MIRACLES AND OPEN DOORS – God’s intervention accompanies those who trust Him (Exodus 14:13-14). Prepare for breakthroughs.

d) LIVE WITH HOPE AND EXPECTANCY – Anticipation fuels bold action (Romans 15:13). Hope sustains faith.

Biblical Example: Abraham left his familiar surroundings in faith, embracing God’s promise, which resulted in the birth of nations (Genesis 12:1-4).

CONCLUSION

To cross over successfully, you must release the past, embrace God’s promises, and step forward with faith. Leaving setbacks and regrets behind positions you for supernatural breakthroughs, favour, and divine alignment in the coming season.

As you intentionally leave the past, expect God to open new doors, bless your endeavours, and guide you into a future of victory, joy, and abundance. Press toward the mark and let the new season be a testimony of God’s faithfulness.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, help me release all setbacks, disappointments, and regrets.

2. Lord, renew my heart to embrace the future with faith.

3. I declare freedom from every past burden that limits progress.

4. Father, give me clarity to recognise new opportunities in this season.

5. Lord, strengthen me to step boldly into Your plans.

6. I receive courage to leave past failures behind.