January 2
"Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead.”
(Philippians 3:13)
It’s easy to look back at our failures, regrets, and mistakes and feel weighed down. Addiction can leave us feeling like we are tied to the past and unable to move forward. But the Apostle Paul’s words in Philippians remind us of an essential truth: we are not defined by where we have been. In Christ, we are given the strength to release the past and press on toward the future God has for us.
Paul, who once persecuted Christians, could have been consumed by guilt. Yet he chose to forget what lies behind and to strain toward what is ahead. This doesn’t mean we ignore or deny our past but that we refuse to let it control or define us. God offers us forgiveness, grace, and the promise of transformation. When we embrace His love and forgiveness, we can let go of shame and look ahead with hope.
Our success in recovery requires this forward focus. Straining toward what is ahead is an active pursuit—it’s daily surrendering to God, relying on His strength, and taking steps toward healing and freedom. It means embracing God’s promise in Isaiah 43:18-19: “Do not call to mind the former things, or consider things of the past. Behold, I am going to do something new.”
Remember, your past does not define your future. God has a purpose for your life, and He will equip you to walk in it. Keep your eyes on Him, take each step in faith, and trust that He is making all things new.
What are some ways you have allowed your past to define you? How have you been able to not overcome the pull of your past?
Lord, help me release the weight of my past and fix my eyes on You. Give me strength to take hold of the future You have planned for me. Amen.
Redemptive Recovery
Redemptive Recovery (RR) is a Christian recovery group and program that is modeled on biblical truths. We believe that Jesus Christ has the power to transform our lives and that the bible is our roadmap. RR meets weekly and is for anyone currently navigating the challenges of addiction and also those that are further along in their recovery.
Visit www.redemptiverecovery.org for more information.