“The LORD says, ‘Do not cling to events of the past or dwell on what happened long ago. Watch for the new thing I am going to do. It is happening already — you can see it now!’” (Isaiah 43:18-19, GNT)
When people stop following God’s vision for their lives, they usually think two things: “I don’t have what it takes” or “I have failed in the past.” If you want to get a fresh start on pursuing God’s vision, the first step is to stop making excuses.
You do have what it takes
Have you ever heard someone say or have you even said yourself, “I don’t have what it takes to go after my dream”? Many people in the Bible — including Moses and Jeremiah — tried to use this excuse when God had an assignment for them. But my favorite example of “I don’t have what it takes” is Gideon. God told Gideon he wanted to use him to liberate the Israelites. Gideon responded: “‘But Lord . . . how can I rescue Israel? My clan is the weakest in the whole tribe of Manasseh, and I am the least in my entire family!’ The LORD said to him, ‘I will be with you.’” (Judges 6:15-16, NLT)
When you think you don’t have what it takes, remember what Gideon’s life teaches: You’re never on your own; God is always with you and for you. You can rely on his power, presence, promises, and protection. You don’t have to worry about anything!
Your past is past
This is another common excuse for not making a fresh start: “I have failed in the past.” The truth is that everyone has failed. And while you are a product of your past, you don’t have to be a prisoner of your past. You’re shaped by things that happened to you and things you did to yourself. But today you have a choice; you are not a victim unless you choose to be.
God is far more interested in your future than your past. Isaiah 43:18-19 says, “The LORD says, ‘Do not cling to events of the past or dwell on what happened long ago. Watch for the new thing I am going to do. It is happening already — you can see it now!’” (GNT) The biggest barrier to your success may be your own excuses. God wants you to let go of past failures and confess your sins. Then you can move on, knowing your sins are forgiven.
“A man who refuses to admit his mistakes can never be successful. But if he confesses and forsakes them, he gets another chance” (Proverbs 28:13, TLB).
Prayer
Lord, help me to learn and move on from my past and reach toward the future in Your love. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Stay encouraged!
Pastor Mike
