December 31

Brothers, 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, I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus. — Phil 3:13-14 BSB

There is a proper way to use our past experiences. We should remember our past sins to stay humble and learn from our mistakes so that we don’t repeat them. The true art of living isn’t about making no mistakes—because that’s impossible—it’s about not repeating the same mistakes.

We should also remember past mercies and blessings. If we do, the past will shine on us like a sky full of stars. Remembering God’s goodness will keep our hearts full of gratitude and our praise ever fresh. The memories of a past filled with God’s faithfulness can become a refuge in times of trouble. When life becomes dark, and all the stars seem to have gone out, the memory of God’s past faithfulness can be a light to guide us.

But while there are good uses for the past, we must not live looking backward. We should keep our eyes on the future, always striving for new hopes, new attainments, and new achievements.