Victoria Osteen’s message, “Don’t Look Back, Press Forward,” is a motivational call to leave the past behind and embrace the future that God has planned for us.
Key Themes
1. The Secret to Success: Letting Go of the Past
- Based on Philippians 3:12-14, the Apostle Paul shares his one principle for success:
- “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
- Looking back at past mistakes, failures, or regrets can prevent us from moving forward.
2. The Danger of Dwelling on the Past
- Dwelling on the past can harm relationships, diminish self-esteem, and derail progress.
- Like in racquetball, turning back can cause harm; life requires forward focus.
- God doesn’t operate in the past—He works in the present to prepare us for the future.
Practical Lessons
1. Play the Ball in Front of You
- Life, like racquetball, is forward-facing. Focus on what’s ahead rather than what’s behind.
- Learn to accept that you can’t change the past but can impact the future.
2. Let Go of Blame and Regret
- Don’t get stuck replaying what went wrong or who is at fault.
- Choose to release anger, bitterness, and unforgiveness, as these hold you captive.
3. Call Out to God for Strength
- Just as the man in the story overcame his painful past by turning to God, we too can find healing and direction through prayer and reliance on God.
- Find your unique way to close the door to the past, whether it’s prayer, a new routine, or stepping away from people or situations that keep you stuck.
4. Focus on God’s Promises
- God promises to turn ashes into beauty and work all things for our good (Isaiah 61:3).
- Trust that He is already working in your present circumstances to bring you into His best.
Encouragement to Move Forward
- Success in life requires intentionality in letting go of the past and pressing forward.
- Don’t let the weight of yesterday’s mistakes, regrets, or losses keep you from the abundant future God has planned.
- Take one step at a time, trusting God to guide and equip you.
Declarations of Faith
- “I will not look back at my past failures or regrets. I choose to focus on the future God has for me.”
- “God is turning my ashes into beauty and working all things for my good.”
- “I press forward with faith, leaving behind the things that no longer serve me.”
Closing Thought
- The Apostle Paul’s advice is timeless: “Don’t look back, but press forward.”
- Let God handle your past while you focus on hitting the ball in front of you—your present opportunities. With God on your side, you can overcome any obstacle and achieve the future He has prepared for you. Amen.
