As believers, we have been entrusted to move forward in Christ. Moving forward requires a mind-set. Both principles – ‘moving forward’ and ‘mindset’ – are biblically-supported. From Genesis to Revelation, God is actively moving His people forward and upward. The Bible is a progressive history. In New Testament times, Jesus routinely calls people from where they are to where they need to be.
The Bible mentions a derivative of ‘mind’ at least sixty-four times. Paul urges us to be “transformed by the renewing of our mind” (Romans 12:2) and elsewhere writes, “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 2:5) The Bible also makes it clear that the Enemy attacks the mind before anything else.
Therefore, our mandate as believers is to move forward in life with the mindset of Christ. Developing a moving forward mind-set requires diligence, effort and faith. Even amid a world-wide pandemic, God is still moving us forward and upward.
Like a surge, God is using the strong winds of change and challenge to push us toward the shores of new opportunities, new relationships and a brand-new future. With a moving forward mindset, we can stay in confidence, step up to the challenge and step into our destiny.
The moving forward mind-set is comprehensive but here is a beginning blueprint:
Anticipate the “Blind Side”
I Peter 4:12
“Do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come to test you…”
Sometimes our challenges happen from the peripheral – the blind side. It is not always easy to plan for the unexpected. We should expect the best but always be prepared for the worst.
Respond Do Not React
Proverbs 10:19
“…but the prudent hold their tongues.”
When we react to our circumstances or to people, we are usually in knee-jerk mode. A response is tempered by a prayed-up Spirit.
Write it Down
Jeremiah 30:2
“This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘Write in a book all the words I have spoken to you.’
The more you write the clearer the vision becomes. Write. Edit. Re-edit.
Remember the 3 P’s:
Patience Persistence Praise
Hebrews 10:36
“You have need of patience so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive the promise.
Praise is fuel for persistence.
Kick the ‘But’ Out of Your Life
Proverbs 25:28
“Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.”
The word ‘But’ is a conjunction when used to introduce a phrase or clause contrasting with what has already been mentioned. How many times do you use ‘but’ on any given day?
“I would go for a power walk but…”
“I would go back to school but…”
Master the Mile
John 10:10
“…I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.”
Christ came to bring life to our lives, to make our lives complete in body, mind and spirit.
S.U.R.G.E.: Stand Up Reach God's Excellence is available as a digital download at: www.pastorwericcroomes.com