Sermon Central
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Live In The Present Series
Contributed by Dr. Lewis W. Gregory on Jan 2, 2023 (message contributor)
Summary: It’s a new year. Now what? For some the possibilities seem to be endless, but for others the future appears uncertain with many challenges. Regardless of whether your future seems bright or bleak, here are some things to keep in mind.
I. A Clear Admonition
A. In Isaiah 43:18 God gives us a clear admonition; don’t dwell on the past! If you want to make progress in the future, you must leave the past behind. The past is over and gone. Don’t dwell on what could have been or should have been. It is what it is. Leave it at that.
B. You can’t change the past. You can learn from the past. You can even cherish the fond memories of the past, but you can’t live in the past. Furthermore, you should not take the past into consideration as a determinant factor regarding your future. You must not allow the negative experiences of the past to rob you of your future potential.
C. Too often people limit themselves going forward because of the failures and problems of their past. If you dwell on the past, then the fear of repeating the failures of your past will discourage you from moving forward. The fear of failure can be very debilitating. So, what can you do?
II. The Past is Gone
A. You must accept the fact that the past is gone. So, let it go! You need to live in the present as you anticipate the future. Realize that you can’t predict the future anymore than you could change the past. God alone knows the future. Furthermore, He is the Almighty God, so He can handle whatever comes your way.
B. Leave the future in God’s hands. Your life is His responsibility; He is ready, willing, and able to assume the responsibility for your life. You must let Him. That’s what the Lordship of Christ is all about.
III. Lordship is the Solution
A. Lordship involves someone having the oversight of your life in order to guide and provide for you. The Lord Jesus Christ is the only one who is fully qualified to do that. Christ is the only one who knows the best way to guide you. He also is the only one who is capable of providing for all your needs.
B. Submit your life to the Lordship of Christ. Come under His authority. Ask Him to take complete control of your life. When you do, Christ will guide you safely through the uncharted waters of your future. Go with God and your future will be secure. No matter what happens, the Good Lord will be there for you. Now that kind of future should make you very hopeful!
IV. It’s Time to Pray
“Lord, sometimes I am overwhelmed by my past faults and failures. However, You took care of my past at the cross when I was crucified with Christ. Therefore, my past life has ended. The old things have passed away and everything about me has been made new through my union with Christ. Thank You for enabling me to now live in newness of life!” Have a blessed new year!
Lewis Gregory © 2023
You are encouraged to reproduce and distribute this material in any format provided that you do not alter the wording in any way. Please give credit to the author in any printed publications.
