The New Year: Forgetting What Lies Behind

Hello, my name is Ron Blue. As we approach this New Year, and as we think about new beginnings – the old has passed away and all things have become new. You know, the past is the past. There’s not a thing you can do about the past. I think a lot of people live victimized by the past. They are not able to get beyond their past. That’s not unusual. I don’t think it’s unique to me, or to you, if you deal with that. But I’ve got to continue to come back and say, you know, the past is past. What’s really important is where do I go today, and tomorrow, and the next day, the Lord willing.

One of the most meaningful passages in God’s Word to me personally, in terms of application, has been Philippians chapter three. This is where Paul said I was “this”, and I intentionally gave it all up in order to experience the relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. I challenge you to read Philippians chapter three. Look at the things that God has given you. Are you willing to surrender all of them for the future that He has promised?

In verse 12 in that passage, Paul says this: “Not that I have already reached the goal, or am already fully mature, but I make every effort to take hold of it because I have also been taken hold of by Jesus Christ.” So, the whole idea of looking forward, Paul is saying I press on toward the goal of the upward call in Christ Jesus. It is significant. And then, what’s preceding all of that is what He gave up, if you will. I would suggest that what you give up is the past, and press on toward the goal of the upward call in Christ Jesus.

Click here for the January 8, 2010 Blog Entry