As we learn to apply Philippians 3:13 to our lives, and “forget those things which are in the past” we need to understand that our past can potentially hinder our growth in Christ in at least if we allow it. We need to understand the Word of God and seek direction from it to overcome the struggles of life. I am often reminded of Joseph and the struggles that he faced in Genesis 37-50. In all these things, he places his faith in God and recognizes that God will use those things not only for his benefit, but also for the benefit of others. We read his evaluation of those events in his life in Genesis 50:20 as he tells his brothers, “I know that you meant evil against me, in what you did, when you sold me into slavery, but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive.” (paraphrased by me). Joseph was able to understand that God’s plan for his life was bigger than his hopes for his present circumstances. When God was ready for Joseph to be used in a mighty way, He put … READ MORE

Paul records in Philippians 3:13-14 “forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” People tend to drift between tow extremes when considering the past, Some believe that past is nothing and say “just suck it up and move on” others believe that the past is everything and blame the failures of today on their shaping influences in the past. They argue, “I can help it, it is just the way that I am!” We need to develop a biblical theology of the past on a practical, understandable level. While we are not to allow the past to control our present, at the same time we need to learn from our past so that as we make decisions in the present it will make for a better future. Our past is simply the accumulation of events, choices, responses, habits, attitudes, desires, feelings, and beliefs that frame the patterns, interpretations, and routines of our lives today. We need to learn that as we learn from the past it will help us as we “press toward the goal for … READ MORE

We need to honor those who sacrifice so that we can live in a free country. How do we honor the sacrifices of others? First, by treating them with the respect and honor deserved by their sacrifice. And Second, while we may not agree with what they are doing, we need to recognize that their sacrifices make my life possible. Gratitude is an expression that must be intentional. Our lives have been made possible because of the sacrifices of others. The ultimate expression of sacrifice was seen in the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ to this earth, to give His life as a sacrifice for our sin. Memorial day is a day set aside to remember! We need to remember on a daily basis, all those who have given of their time, energy, and sometimes their lives, to make sure that we can live in the freedom that we enjoy. May you come to understand that your sacrifices will not go unnoticed in eternity, and your reward is not based on the recognition that you receive now, but in the appreciation of a truly grateful god, as you are and have stood against the sinful conduct of our world.… READ MORE