Baggage

As we mature we bring along baggage; we all do that. Sometimes it is past sin that haunts us. Or it might be effects of our upbringing, or things that we have been taught from early ages. So many things from our past continue to dwell with us and affect how we see the present or the future. The easy solution to this is to say, "Drop the baggage and move on." But, of course, it isn't usually that easy. Let's see what the Bible has to say about this.

Philippians 3:12-16 gives us a good look at how Paul was doing with this subject. And surely he is a good example to follow, realizing that he had been responsible for the torture and deaths of Christians before his conversion. He says, "Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. 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. Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you." It is interesting to see that Paul could say, "..forgetting those things which are behind..." when we consider what a past he had.

As we put the lid on 2011 and start a fresh new year, let's follow Paul's suggestions. Put it all behind, dropping the baggage, and look forward with fresh eyes, as Hebrews 12:2 says, "..looking unto Jesus.."

Thanks for reading again. Join me in looking forward....forward to God's wonderful creation and to a future of trying to bring Glory to God through our lives. Bless you.