New Beginnings with Forgiveness and Faith

“But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

Philippians 3:13b-14

Dear Friends,

New beginnings are a special gift, but sometimes they are hard to enjoy. Past failures and mistakes often restrain us from moving forward. When we let go and embrace a fresh start, new life and momentum take the lead. Then we can focus on the future and press on.

The Power of Letting Go

Perfectionism has always been one of my struggles. Something inside of me likes order and neatness. Even on the printed page I hate cross-outs and scribbles. I find peace and comfort when everything goes just right without mistakes. But, sadly, life is not like this. We often slog through a variety of difficult situations we wish we could change or redo. Sometimes you just want new beginnings.

While we can’t fix certain mistakes we have made, we can leave them behind and move forward. Paul, the best known missionary of all time, told his Philippian readers how he dealt with a messy past. He understood that he had not fully attained all God had for him, and that while on the earth he would continually struggle with his human tendencies. But his solution kept him from wallowing in despair.

Rather than get stuck in the past, Paul told his readers, “But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

In his early life, Paul had persecuted Christians, arresting them and throwing them in prison. He stood by and applauded while an angry crowd stoned Stephen, a leading deacon in the newly formed church. These, along with many other travesties he committed, could have buried Paul in despair and regret.

New Beginnings for the Apostle Paul

But one day he met the Savior. While traveling to Damascus to harm more believers, a great light from heaven blinded him. There he met the Lord and his life was forever changed. It was a new beginning for him and he spent the rest of his life serving the One he had persecuted.

When thoughts of his sordid past would arise, he did not allow them to cripple him. He accepted the forgiveness God had given and pressed on toward the goal: knowing Christ, being conformed to His image, and sharing the message of salvation with others.

This is a wonderful reminder as we step into a new year – a time for fresh starts and new opportunities. Like Paul, you can accept forgiveness found in Christ, release your past mistakes and focus on the future. While you will still face challenges and make mistakes, progress matters more than perfection. Your righteousness comes from God through faith, not from flawless performance.

A New Year and a New Start

Start your new beginnings by reflecting on the past year. Identify areas you need to let go of and ask God for both forgiveness and strength to move forward. Make intentional changes and press on with faith and determination. As you do you will move closer to the goal of a deeper relationship with Christ and the prize of His heavenly calling. In Him, you are forgiven and empowered to live a full and victorious life.

What steps will you take this year to press on towards the goal of knowing Christ? Share in the comments below!

Love,

Mama

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