FAY ROWE

One of my favourite things to do at the beginning of every new year is to look back and count the blessings of the past. If I haven't already done so, I write a short reminder of each one in my Keepers journal, laying an Ebenezer stone, as the children of Israel did, saying "hitherto the Lord has led us."

But, then, there are things I need to leave in the past. Like the apostle Paul, I forget those things and press forward.

That may sound contradictory, but really it isn't.

While we remember the Lord's faithfulness, and even remember and learn from our failures and mistakes, we can't live in the past. We cannot live in past blessings or accomplishments, and must not live in past hurts and pains. If we do they will steal from or poison our future. 

We can take all that is good from the past, the knowledge of God, the lessons we've learnt, and precious memories we have made, and move forward with thanksgiving for all of them. And we can receive healing for the hurts through forgiveness purposefully given.

The road ahead is filled with more of His goodness, more of His blessings, and, yes, more lessons to be learnt. There are more precious memories out there, more accomplishments awaiting our courage and efforts, and more opportunities to grow in grace.

Lets take some time to reflect, and then go with God.

And have a happy and prosperous 2010!

"I will remember the works of the Lord; Surely I will remember your wonders of old. I will also meditate on all your work, and talk of your deeds" (Psalm 77:11,12).