MEMORY 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.” Philippians 3:13.
BIBLE PASSAGE: Numbers 11:4-7.
INTRODUCTION
After the children of Israel left Egypt, it is unfortunate that “the spin of Egypt” did not leave them. Despite the miracles of deliverance and divine provisions, they still longed for the cucumbers and garlic they ate as slaves because “yesterday” was vivid in their memories. The same thing applies to some of us who refuse to let go of our past! How can we overcome the urge to cling to the past,embrace today and look on the bright side of tomorrow?
OUTLINE
- PAST IS PAST
- THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT
1. PAST IS PAST
Below are some of the ways to deal with past events or occurrences:
1. Be intentional to let go of the ugly past because some bad memories always want to fill our thoughts Philippians 4:8. Do not bask perpetually in the euphoria of the past.
2. Learn from the mistakes of the past and determine to avoid repetition of same errors previously made John 8:10- 11.
3. Forgive yourself and others for whatever happened in the past Genesis 50:15-18; 45:5. Remove the “veil of offense” and never allow it to degenerate into an obstacle Ephesians 4:31; Hebrews 12:15.
4. Go forward by thinking and taking the next step into a brighter tomorrow 2 Samuel 12:18-23.
5. Forget ‘yesterday’ because it is gone. Stop holding on to the past or referring to it incessantly as if you can turn back the hand of the clock Philippians 3:13.
6. Set your mind free from the hurtful past because a negative past enslaves Galatians 5:1; Genesis 33:1-3, 8.
7. Cry to God to take any unwanted memory away. Remember that vengeance is of the Lord: leave the matter to Him Romans 12:19.
2. THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT
Believers must walk with the assurance that tomorrow will be better than their yesterday Job 14:7-9. Hope is a prerequisite needed to forget the past and look forward to the future Job 11:18; 14:14; Romans 5:5 Having a focus will sustain a believer to keep moving Philippians 3:13- 14. Give yourself to the study of God’s word Psalm 119:15-16 and know that He is your help Psalm 46:1-5; this gives uncommon happiness and joy Psalm 146:5. Carve the future by channelling all your energy to positive endeavours to fulfil your purpose in life Judges 11:1-5. No matter what, win your future Proverbs 23:18.
CONCLUSION
Remembering the irreparable past generates sorrow, focusing on a better future brings excitement.
FURTHER READINGS:
SUN: Romans 12:17.
MON: Psalm 1:2.
TUES: Psalm 119:35.
WED: Hebrews 6:1.
THURS: 2 Corinthians 5:17.
FRI: Luke 9:62.
SAT: Proverbs 24:29.