A NEW YEAR PERSPECTIVE

Paul writes from the confines of a prison to his friends in the Phillipian Church : "I forget what is behind me and do my best to reach what is ahead" (Phillipians 3:13). As we begin a New Year his perspective of leaving the past behind and pushing forward to the future is a great attitude to embrace.

A sermon on that very thought can be found here.

What sort of things might Paul have been leaving behind him?

Resentments: Being in prison does not appear to be the best strategy for launching a world wide mission. Paul could have complained about his lot, even given up on the idea that Christianity had anything worthwhile to offer the world. Yet instead of cradling his hurts, he allows God’s Spirit to put it all behind him.

Worries: There was a lot Paul had to worry about. But that’s not the choice he makes. Instead he simply trusts in God. He has faith and trust in God over and above his worries. He believes God’s love is strong enough to hold his life in His care.

Failures: Paul had been a one-time enemy of Christ. He had stood by and held the coats when Stephen was stoned to death. He had caused a lot of pain and created a lot of enmity towards the church. But that was then and this was now. Yes… he had failed. But now he lived in the freedom of the forgiving grace of Jesus Christ.

What things keep Paul moving forward?

He realizes he is only human. He speaks of doing his best. He doesn’t sit back and wallow in self-pity. He does not regard grace as a cheap commodity without implications. He actively pursues a higher goal.

He finds his strength in Jesus Christ. Elsewhere Paul complains that in his human nature he lacks the power to move on. He rejoices that God’s Holy Spirit grants him a power to travel beyond his own limited resources and achieve things that otherwise would not be possible.

Prayer: Lord, as we enter into a New Year help us to put all our resentments, worries and failures behind us. Empower us through Your Holy Spirit to move forward in faith and in the knowledge that You will walk with us throughout the coming days. Amen.