“Forgetting what lies behind and moving forward to what lies ahead.” (Phil. 3:13)
While the Bible encourages forgetting the former things and focusing on the new things God is doing, it also acknowledges the importance of remembering past events for the purpose of learning and thanksgiving. Ultimately, the Bible warns against dwelling on the past in a way that hinders moving forward in faith as we follow Christ and His teachings each day.
Isaiah 43:18-19 reads: "Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert."
"Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old":
This part of the verse urges believers to move beyond dwelling on past experiences, both positive and negative. It encourages letting go of past hurts, failures, and even past successes, as God has something new in store.
"Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it?"
God is actively initiating something new and transformative. The verse emphasizes the immediacy, presence, and faithfulness of God in this new work, prompting believers to recognize and embrace it.
"I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert":
This is a metaphor for God's provision and power to overcome obstacles and create new life. Even when circumstances seem barren and desolate, God promises to provide a path and resources for those who trust in Him.
The Key is Balance:
We should not dwell on the past in a way that hinders forward progress. This means avoid regret, shame, and bitterness. It involves recognizing past mistakes and seeking to improve, while trusting in God's plan.
Looking back at past blessings and God's provision, can strengthen faith and encourage gratitude. Recognizing past sins and seeking forgiveness from God is an essential part of spiritual growth.
God is always capable of doing something new and unexpected, even when it seems impossible...and all things are possible with God as our wise Spiritual Teacher and Heavenly Father.
"But if anyone of you lacks wisdom, let him ask from God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." James 1:5-6
When we invite Jesus into our hearts and lives as Savior, He creates a new person within us, by the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, promised to dwell within every believer who walks with Jesus in their daily lives.
Isaiah 43:18-19 reads: "Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert."
"Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old":
This part of the verse urges believers to move beyond dwelling on past experiences, both positive and negative. It encourages letting go of past hurts, failures, and even past successes, as God has something new in store.
"Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it?"
God is actively initiating something new and transformative. The verse emphasizes the immediacy, presence, and faithfulness of God in this new work, prompting believers to recognize and embrace it.
"I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert":
This is a metaphor for God's provision and power to overcome obstacles and create new life. Even when circumstances seem barren and desolate, God promises to provide a path and resources for those who trust in Him.
The Key is Balance:
We should not dwell on the past in a way that hinders forward progress. This means avoid regret, shame, and bitterness. It involves recognizing past mistakes and seeking to improve, while trusting in God's plan.
Looking back at past blessings and God's provision, can strengthen faith and encourage gratitude. Recognizing past sins and seeking forgiveness from God is an essential part of spiritual growth.
God is always capable of doing something new and unexpected, even when it seems impossible...and all things are possible with God as our wise Spiritual Teacher and Heavenly Father.
"But if anyone of you lacks wisdom, let him ask from God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." James 1:5-6
When we invite Jesus into our hearts and lives as Savior, He creates a new person within us, by the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, promised to dwell within every believer who walks with Jesus in their daily lives.
