LivingLiving With The Past* With The Past
Philippians 3
KJV
13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
14+ I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Many a life has come to a standstill because of its fixation on the past. Friend, there is no one with a clean past not even the sages of the past.
Each had a past concerning which had they been mindful of none of the achievements accredited to them would become a reality. It is therefore not our imperfections but God’s perfection.
This is echoed by Paul in his often-quoted statement;
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Philippians 4
KJV
13+ I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
The limitations our past imposes on us is removed if we focus on Christ and the Holy Spirit who works in and through us.
Hear Paul again
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1 Corinthians 15
KJV
9+ For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.
10 But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.
Did you read this “ but by the grace of God I am what I am?”
To focus therefore on your horrible past is to put a noose around your neck ready to commit suicide!
Elsewhere Paul said his past was forgiven so he could be a living testimony of the transformative power of God The same applies to us with horrible pasts who now serve God Read it
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1 Timothy 1
KJV
15+ This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.
16 Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.
He said God did this to show His long-suffering and tolerance to those who will hereafter give their lives to Jesus! He was therefore an example of what God can do with anyone with a horrible past.
So do not let your past lock you up! Do not be a prisoner of the past, break jail and come out. Do not worry if some call you an ex-convict, for such were we before.
These words I address to you as a former prisoner! Please break out of jail and free yourself.
A thought to share