Parting Ways with the Past Releasing the Old

Written by: Charmaine Blackwood

January 2, 2024

 Focus Verse:

Philippians 3:13-14: Brothers and sisters, I do not consider that I have made it my own yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the [heavenly] prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

 As we strive to achieve God's best for the new year, it is crucial that we learn to let go of our past. Just like old wineskins that cannot contain new wine, our past may hinder us from receiving new blessings and opportunities. Therefore, we should intentionally reflect on our past and make a conscious effort to part ways with it.  

The significance of the past:

Paul tells us in “Philippians 3:13-14: Brothers and sisters, I do not consider that I have made it my own yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the [heavenly] prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

 The past serves as a important milestone and vivid reminder of where we are coming from. It is not a destination for us to live. God’s mercies are new every morning and his faithfulness is great towards us. Daily he writes off the past and give us a fresh start to. sowineskins cannot contain new wine, we cannot expect to receive the new things that God has for us if we are stuck in old ways of thinking, behaving, or being.

 The process of letting go:

In Romans 12:2, Paul writes, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." When we let go of the past we Becoming a new wineskin requires a willingness to let go of old habits, beliefs, and attitudes that no longer serve us. It requires a commitment to renew our minds through prayer, reading God's word, and seeking wise counsel.

 The benefits of being a new wineskin:

When we are willing to become new wineskins, we position ourselves to receive the new wine that God has for us. This can include new opportunities, new relationships, new insights, or new levels of spiritual growth. As we open ourselves up to the new things that God wants to do in our lives, we become more fully alive and more effective in fulfilling His purposes.

 As we begin this new year, let us be open to becoming new wineskins, ready to receive the new wine that God has for us. May we be willing to let go of old ways of thinking and being, and embrace the transformation that God wants to work in our lives. May we be filled with joy, hope, and expectancy as we look forward to all that God has in store for us in the days ahead.

 Prayer:

Abba Father we thank You for giving us a new year. Thank You for Your love, grace, and mercy that are new every morning. As we stand on the brink of a New Year Lord we surrender once more our body, Soul, and Spirit into Your hands asking that You transform us into new wineskin for the new wine that You have in store for us in Jesus' name. Amen