FORGETTING THE PAST AND REACHING FOR THE FUTURE

Phil 3:12 (KJV) Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.

Phil 3:13 (KJV) 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,

Phil 3:14 (KJV) I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

INTRODUCTION:

The Lord's desire for you is newness and life; not stagnation and death. His work is always vibrant and exhilarating; full of anticipation and promise.

Often, God brings new challenges to accomplish His purpose and plan. He never does this to hurt His people or to destroy their stability. In fact, challenges to our faith are meant to strengthen and reinforce the us because they offer opportunities for new commitments and fresh vision.

A. We must have an eye for the future.

1. It's challenges.

2. It's successes.

3. It's glorious celebrations.

B. We must not look to the past. It's chains bind us to shadowed memories.

1. Victories are embellished.

2. Defeats are magnified.

3. Personal grievances become etched in our mind.

C. God wants us to let the past remain behind us; to receive today and to live it with vision and promise.

1. TODAY is a new life; a restoration of purpose, plan and vision.

2. TODAY is a new life; accept the challenge, the dare, the commitment.

3. TODAY is a new life; with vibrancy and excitement of creation and building.

4. TODAY is a new life; an opportunity of ministry to reach the unsaved and hurting.

5. TODAY is a new life; take it and live to the full expectation of God's purpose in you.

Paul's challenge to us today is to reach for the goal; always pressing forward, always striving against the opposition. Today is a time for progress and renewed dedication; a time for personal action; a time for commitment of talent; a time for making promises to God about Christian service and involvement.