Isaiah 43:18 ~ “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.”
There are people in the business, financial, academic, sports world, and even in the church, who have experienced significant loss of money, reputation, credibility, success, and personal advancement. Yet, over time through perseverance and determination they manage to put all their losses/failures behind them and go on to become successful and prosperous. To hold onto or dwell on mistakes/poor decisions/actions that cannot be “undone or recalled,” is to waste precious time not experiencing the forgiveness, grace, and redemptive power of God!
The message of Isaiah 43, is one of assurance of God’s unfailing love, comfort, and care for Israel, despite their disobedience and failures, they were still God’s nation and chosen people! Although God disciplines those He loves, when we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive our sins, and purify us from all unrighteousness, which allows us to put all negative things behind us!
The year 2020, the ushering in of a new decade is the perfect time to put all feelings of guilt, anger, malice, hurt, shame, blame, discouragement, wrongdoing, unkind words, unloving attitudes, and any other shortcomings, behind us, by:
- Acknowledging, like the prodigal son in Luke 15:21, “Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you.”
- Praying and doing, what Lamentations 3:40AMP suggests, “Let us test and examine our ways, and let us return to the Lord.”
- Studying, the Holy scriptures to gain knowledge of all God’s promises and provision for every one of our transgressions, through His death on the cross.
- Believing & trusting in the proclamation of, Isaiah 38:17C AMP, “For you have cast all my sins behind Your back.”
- Standing steadfast in the assurance that God is committed to our transformation, restoration, and renewal.
Family, by the grace of God and in the words of gospel artist Israel Houghton, we have entered into a new season and a new day! A fresh anointing is flowing our way. It’s a season of power and prosperity, of spiritual wisdom, growth, and maturity. It’s a new season coming to you! I pray that each of you receive this word of encouragement in faith and with expectation.
Blessings & Favor,
Pastor Holmes
#38 ~ Jan.2020
