How does focusing on the future strengthen our faith and trust in God? The Text at the Center “Do not call to mind the former things; pay no attention to the things of old.” Isaiah 43:18 Why Yesterday Can Weigh Down Today • Past failures create shame that stifles bold prayer • Former victories tempt us to rest instead of press on • Lingering wounds foster bitterness that clouds vision • Old habits can feel safer than fresh obedience God’s Invitation to Look Ahead Right after verse 18, the Lord declares, “See, I am about to do something new” (Isaiah 43:19). He commands eyes forward because His work is forward. Three Ways a Future Focus Strengthens Faith 1. Continual confidence in God’s ongoing work – “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6 – Trust deepens when we expect progress rather than perfection today. 2. Hope anchored in unbreakable promises – “For I know the plans I have for you… to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 – Faith feeds on hope; hope feeds on promises; promises look forward. 3. Perseverance shaped by eternal perspective – “Our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory far beyond comparison.” 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 – Trials shrink when measured against coming glory (Romans 8:18). Practical Ways to Cultivate Forward Faith • Start the day with a promise: read one verse that points to what God will do. • Keep a “new things” journal: note every evidence that He is still at work. • Speak future-oriented words: encourage others with Scriptures about what lies ahead. • Fix eyes on Jesus, “the author and perfecter of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2), not on personal performance. A Closing Snapshot of Promise “And the One seated on the throne said, ‘Behold, I make all things new.’” Revelation 21:5 Looking forward with God never ignores the past; it simply refuses to be chained to it, choosing instead the stronger anchor of His guaranteed future. |
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