Youth Sermon: Moving Past Our Past

Introduction

Today, we're going to talk about moving past our past. God wants us to focus on the future, not dwell on the past. So let's dive in and see how we can do that.

First, let's check out this cool object lesson. (Hold up a small rearview mirror.) When you're driving a car, you use this rearview mirror to see what's behind you, right? But imagine if you tried to drive only by looking in this mirror. You'd crash in no time! That's because we're meant to drive looking out of the windshield, not the rearview mirror. Just like driving, we're not meant to live our lives constantly looking back at our past mistakes.

Just like driving, we're not meant to live our lives constantly looking back at our past mistakes.

Biblical Reference

Now, let's look at what the Bible says about this. In Philippians 3:13-14, Paul talks about forgetting what's behind and straining toward what's ahead. He knew that if he focused on his past mistakes, he wouldn't be ready for the awesome things God had planned for him.

So, how do we move past our past? We've got to put it to death. In Galatians 2:20-21, Paul says that our past sins and mistakes need to be crucified with Christ. When we do that, we can live a new life with Jesus in control.

Moving Forward

But what about when we mess up in the future? That's where faith comes in. We need to trust that God's love and forgiveness will always be there for us, no matter what.

This week, whenever you start to feel weighed down by past mistakes, remember the rearview mirror. Remind yourself that God wants you to focus on the future, not the past. And if you need to ask for forgiveness or make things right with someone, go ahead and do it. Then, move forward in faith, knowing that God's got your back.

Prayer

Let's pray: "God, thank you for your amazing love and forgiveness. Help us to move past our past and focus on the future you have planned for us. Give us the strength to trust in your grace and live our lives for you. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Small Group Breakout Questions

1. Why is it important to fully accept God's forgiveness for our past mistakes?

2. How can focusing on the future help us grow in our faith?

3. What are some practical ways to move past our past and embrace the new life Jesus offers?

4. How can we support each other in our journey towards forgiveness and growth?

5. What steps can you take this week to live a more future-focused life?

Get the Full Youth Group Plan

• Icebreaker: Time Machine Choices
• Group Activity: Creating a "New Life" Collage
• Youth Challenge: Forgiveness and Future Focus Challenge