I know this is a popular time to make resolutions and set goals. But how do you move forward with renewed purpose when it seems everywhere you look there’s another change, challenge, or trial?
At the risk of oversimplification, travel light this year. The word “forget” in the Philippians passage means to purposely neglect. In other words, don’t rehearse your past pain. Don’t use it as a filter for all you encounter this year. Don’t carry baggage from your past which could anchor you to the next obstacle. Let go of your expectations and offenses, and stop picking at your wounds.
Carry with you what you’ve learned. Rehearse every encouraging word and prophetic promise. Hold in your heart all the love of those you’ve lost, and take each step in the grace of the one you’ll never lose. Allow God to show you your life from his viewpoint, not as fear, bitterness, and pain want to paint it. Though you may not fully understand why you got them, let your scars heal. They are the badges of a seasoned warrior who lives in faith, moves with hope, and whose identity is love.
For me, at least, the key to a successful 2020 is living each moment of it as fully as possible with Jesus. I do keep having the phrase, “the grace to be, and the grace to do” run through my mind. No matter what the future holds, it’s the right time for you to press forward with him, in all the grace he has for you every day this year. Happy New Year, everyone.
Equip Your Spirit 