The New Exodus journey begins with a powerful command: Forget the Former Things. God knows that if we cling to the baggage of the past—whether it’s guilt from old failures or the comfort of old successes—we cannot move into the new thing He is preparing. We must drop the weight of “Egypt.” This is a deliberate choice we make daily to trust God’s vision over our history. Let’s not dwell on what was, but actively look for what is already springing up. This ministry is not about what we couldn’t achieve before; it is about what God will achieve now.
Isaiah 43:18 (NIV): “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.” Philippians 3:13 (NIV): “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead.” Hebrews 12:1 (NIV): “Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”
The Danger of Dwelling Dwelling on the past is a form of spiritual slavery. It holds you captive to circumstances that Christ has already freed you from. God is commanding a total mental and emotional release of the “former things.” This includes the pain of old betrayals, the shame of personal failures, and even the nostalgia of former glories that might distract you. You cannot walk the road God is building in the wilderness if you are constantly looking over your shoulder at the desert you left. This is why the command is so absolute: do not dwell on the past.
The Action of Letting Go Letting go is an act of faith. You must trust that every single experience, every trial, and every lesson you have learned has simply been preparation for this moment. Trust that God is using the past as a launching pad, not an anchor. Intentionally release that baggage today, whether it’s bitterness toward others or disappointment with yourself. Focus your energy on perceiving the new thing that is already springing up in your life and in the life of our fellowship. Our God is a God of new beginnings, and He requires our full focus on the future He is creating.
Let's Pray,
Lord, I intentionally release the baggage of the "former things" today. I choose not to dwell on past mistakes or regrets. Fix my eyes on the road You are building for my future.
Amen.