Holding on to Yesterday

by Pastor Holly Johnson

“Forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth… I press toward the mark.” (Philippians 3:13-14). To forget is “to leave behind.” To leave something is “to give over to another to control or act on.” Who better to entrust our burdens and cares to than to the Lord? Who loves us more than the God who sacrificed His own Son to die for us, that we might live?

I often struggle with letting go of my burdens, and many times try to accomplish things in my own strength. It is only by His strength, that we can do as Paul spoke and learn to forget those things which are in the past and reach forth for the future. You can make a difference today. That is why you need to focus on the present and the future. You cannot make much progress by driving with your eyes focused on the rear view mirror. You will end up in a ditch, or hit something. You become an accident waiting to happen. 

Forgetting about the past may involve forgiveness. Forgiving those who hurt or wronged you. Most of all, forgive yourself for past mistakes. Realize that God’s mercies are new every morning. If He can forgive us, we should also forgive ourselves.
            Forgiveness brings healing and restoration to emotions and relationships. It clears us of lots of emotional baggage that we have been carrying around. Forgiveness sets you free to face current issues. Allow the power of Christ to heal your damaged emotions. Forgive and move on…
            Forget about your past failures. Learn lessons from mistakes and begin again. Forget about past hurts, forgive and press on! Look forward. Set your mind free to see the future, and work/walk towards it in the present. Say goodbye to yesterday…There is freedom in Christ!