When Forgetting is a Good Thing

We make jokes about becoming forgetful as we get older. While this is usually a negative thing, there is finally a positive side to forgetfulness!

“…But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14 ESV).

Paul’s point touches on what many of us struggle with. Our past isn’t a pretty picture, what can we do about it? Some people try to cope with it by making jokes about it or even trying to excuse it. But it doesn’t go away. Some people try to drug themselves to try to feel something positive or nothing at all. But it still doesn’t go away.

Earlier, Paul wrote that His confidence is not in his own perfection or righteousness, but to “be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith – that I may know him and the power of his resurrection…” (Philippians 3:9-10 ESV).

In other words, Paul could forget the terrible mistakes and sins of his past because in Christ, if you have faith – if you really believe in Jesus – you have forgiveness of all your sins (you are righteous). And this faith is rooted in the power of His resurrection from the dead which gives us confidence in Him raising us in righteousness.

You don’t have a good past? Neither did Paul. You aren’t perfect now? Neither was Paul. You don’t know if you can remain perfect as a child of God? Neither did Paul. You want to forget all of these things and live your life in joy and peace? Paul did too, and found that through faith in Christ which caused him to follow Jesus whatever He said. Forgetting can be a good thing. And only in Christ is it possible.  dd