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Go Forward, Not Backward



One of the expressions we use to describe progress is that we are “moving forward”.  Correspondingly, if we are “going backward”, we are likely regressing or retreating.

Even the old expression “two steps forward and one step backward” follows suit.  While difficulties may inhibit our progress (one step backward), at least things are still moving forward (two steps forward).

I recently read a verse in Jeremiah that offered clarity to this forward/backward thing: “But they did not listen or pay attention; instead, they followed the stubborn inclinations of their evil hearts. They went backward and not forward.”  (Jer 7:24)

There are some clear indicators here on what causes us to go backward.  When we are not listening as we should be, we are going backward.  When we are not paying attention as we should be, we are going backward.  When we follow the stubborn inclinations of our evil hearts when we shouldn’t be, we are going backward.

Going backward, as indicated in the verse above, is not a good thing.  Forward is the direction we should be going.  The Apostle Paul put it another way:  “I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”  (Phil 3:14)

While the goal likely refers to the finish line of life and the prize likely refers to the crowns that will be awarded to those who finish well, the upward call of God is probably broader.  One commentator put it this way:  “The upward call of God in Christ Jesus includes all the purposes that God had in mind in saving us.  It includes salvation, conformity to Christ, being joint heirs with Him, a home in heaven, and numberless other spiritual blessings.”

Going backward rarely, if ever, is the direction to go when the prize is before us.  So, eye on the prize, move forward and press ahead!


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