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Forgetting the Past to See the Future

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.  See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”¹

Did you know that statistically, January 13^th is the date most people “give up” on any New Years Goals they made on January 1^st? The 13^th was just earlier this week! Why do you think this is?

Typically, the goals made on New Years Day have to do with a change that we are trying to make, or for many it is implementing something completely new into their lifestyle or routine. New things can be difficult to get accustomed to. It takes reprogramming our minds to accept the new and break old habits that were, perhaps, less beneficial to our overall wellbeing. We like what is familiar and, when we know what to expect, it gives us a sense of “security”.

As humans, it is sometimes easy to revert to old ways in an effort to regain control (or at least we think we have the control). However, as Christians, it is important to remember that our lives belong to our Savior. He is the one truly in control and our only source of security and wellbeing.

In the first part of Isaiah chapter 43, which is where we find the key verse for today, we read God’s words to his people reassuring them of who they are and who God is. He reminds them that only He is their Savior and true security can be found in him. The second half of the chapter focuses on the unfaithfulness of Israel, and God’s great mercy towards them regardless of their actions. He calls them back to himself and gives them the hope of the new things he is going to do. What an amazing God we have, that despite our unfaithfulness to him, he loves us and calls us precious and honored in his sight.²

What are some things, maybe sins, that God has brought to your attention that you need to give to Him? Where are some areas in your life that you need to take action to reach your God-given potential? If you set a New Years Goal, that’s great. But we don’t need to wait for a new year to change our course. God is calling us to act today. Each day is a new opportunity to forget the past and see the future God has for us. He has new things planned for us, but we must choose to trust him and be part of what he is doing. Today is the day!

Suggested Prayer: “Dear God, please forgive me for all the times I have been unfaithful to you. Forgive me for allowing my past to keep me from reaching the plans you have for me. I choose to leave the past, and any current sins, in your hands and ask you to create a new heart in me. I trust that you are walking with me toward the future. Thank you that each day is a new opportunity to forgive, ask forgiveness, be kind, spend more time in your Word, and most importantly know you more. Thank you for your endless love and mercy. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”

 

1.       Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV).

2.       Isaiah 43:4 (NIV).