READ
REFLECT
As competitors we need to look forward not backward. This doesn’t mean that we cannot benefit from memories of our past.
But what happens when we dwell too much in the past? We might believe that we cannot change a habit or behavior. Dwelling in the past too much will hold us back when we want to learn and grow.
What is important is that we learn from our past and that we don’t return to the school of the same mistakes. Philippians tells us to “forget what is behind” and “strain toward what is ahead.” When we zero in on what God wants, the future isn’t as full of as many concerns and frustrations. But that doesn’t mean it will be easy.
Something unexpected will always enter our lives, turning things upside down, and making it more difficult to think clearly or adjust our focus. But when our focus is on Jesus, the benefits are much greater.
Romans 12:2 promises us that when we focus on Him, we are transformed. “ Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Sure, we will still struggle as followers of Christ. And our problems aren’t going away. But we can have a lot more control over our futures when we decide to put God first.
RESPOND
Commit Romans 12:2 to memory
Write down three things you can do to prepare for unexpected challenges in the future.
