Forgetting Those Things.
Beloved,
When we come to Christ, we are to leave everything behind, forgetting those things from our old life—and start a new life in Him.
[Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, 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." Philippians 3:13–14]
Forgetting those things which are behind.
We should forget the following 😊:
* The past is dead
* Our old man is dead
* Our old perverse ways are dead
* Our old corrupt mindset is dead
* Our old lies are dead
* Our old habits are dead
* Our old flesh is dead
We are no longer driven by the sin nature, but by our new, Spirit-led divine nature. We should not get distracted by the pleasures of this world for too long.
Christianity is not for civilians, but for the soldiers of Christ.
[No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier. And also, if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. The hardworking farmer must be first to partake of the crops. Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things." 2 Timothy 2:4–7]
A Militancy to Christ
Divine Love is not weak, but strong, courageous, and bold.
This takes the character of Christ to be formed in us over the weeks, months, and years.
He is our Commander in Chief, whom we learn to obey.
[Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war. His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He had a name written that no one knew except Himself. He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. And the armies in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, followed Him on white horses." Revelation 19:11–14]
Live Forgetting Those Things Behind Us
Beloved, we are also included in this divine army on the earth. To follow Christ means leaving—and forgetting—the old things. As we approach the outpouring of the Spirit this Pentecost (next Sunday),
make every effort to live in the newness of life through the Holy Spirit.
Abide in Him at every opportunity. Keep fasting and praying in all holiness.
Do not be discouraged but rejoice. Fight the good fight of faith.
Bless the Lord.
Live in thanksgiving and praise—
Never looking back,
But always moving forward and upward
In the things of Christ Jesus.
[Do not remember the former things,
Nor consider the things of old.
Behold, I will do a new thing,
Now it shall spring forth;
Shall you not know it?
I will even make a road in the wilderness
And rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:18-19]