Yesterday is Gone

Introduction:

The impact of the past can wield a powerful influence on our lives. Today, we experience the consequences of yesterday's events, whether they brought joy or hurdles. Today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday. The purpose of this message is an invitation to break free from the chains of the past, to embrace God's grace, and to welcome the help and strength of the present.

Theme 2024

Let me remind you that our theme for the year revolves around "When the right person is in the right place at the right time, with the right purpose, the right results will follow." Last week, we discussed who the right person is, concluding that the right person is the one who does what their hands find to do.

Right time

Today, I want to talk briefly about the topic of the right time. The first point simply states, "Yesterday is gone," but I could have also titled it "How to get yesterday off your back." When was the last time you tried carrying someone of equal size on your back? It's been a while for me, and I must say, it would be challenging to carry someone of my stature on my back every day, wouldn't it? Many people carry something much heavier than another person. They bear a heavy burden. You might be carrying a heavy load today or throughout the past week; a weight of some kind because that's what life is about. It's very challenging to live in today if you're still carrying yesterday on your back. But we don't have to stay there. I would like you to read with me from Psalms 32: verses 1 to 5.

It starts by saying, "Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered." Not only is our debt forgiven but also forgotten. This scripture says that the Lord does not impute our iniquity to us. Your record is completely wiped clean. What an apt message for this communion service because, without the blood of Jesus, you cannot get yesterday off your back. BECAUSE JESUS WANTS TO TAKE AWAY YOUR YESTERDAYS, and His blood was shed, there is great hope for each one of us.

Practical action steps

How do we start to get yesterday off our backs. If this message has spoken to you, send a comment or get in touch. I know that the Spirit of the Lord is already at work within you, speaking to you about the YESTERDAY you are still holding onto. It might be a yesterday of illness, a lack of redemption, or a lack of forgiveness for what others have done to you. Sometimes, these are all intertwined, and we don't even know which one to pray for first. I'll try to provide guidance on that as well.

Beginning with Embracing Today: Every day is a gift from God. It's a day to embrace, to accept God's presence and help, and to make a positive impact in the lives of others.

Letting Go of the Past: God's grace and forgiveness are powerful realities (Hebrews 8:12). When He has forgiven us, He no longer wants to think about our sins, and He encourages us to do the same.

Accepting God's Help Today: The Lord wants to help us today, and His grace is sufficient for every challenge (Psalm 34:8). His promises are not just for the future but also for today (2 Corinthians 6:2). He has a NEW BEGINNING in store for you and wants you to experience His help and grace.

Self-reflection and Gratitude: Take time to remember the good things in your life. Create a list of God's blessings and read it regularly to foster an attitude of gratitude.

Forgiveness: Learn to forgive yourself and others. Forgiveness is not just an act of grace toward others, but it also frees you from the emotional burden of resentment and bitterness. Forgiveness is a topic we will revisit at some point this year.

The Power of a New Beginning: Every day offers a new beginning. Embrace the possibilities of the present and focus on things you can change and influence.

Intimate Relationship with God: Seek an intimate relationship with God through prayer, Bible study, and a life of obedience. Let Him guide your life and diminish the influence of the past. We are entering a time of fasting and prayer – an ideal time to ensure that your relationship with God, yesterday, today, and tomorrow, is in order!