What Does The Bible Say About Moving Forward?

Moving forward is a crucial aspect of life. No matter what stage you are in, progress and growth are necessary, and sometimes, it can be challenging to know where to start. Fortunately, the Bible offers guidance on how to move forward and find purpose in life.

Through its teachings, the Bible encourages us to embrace change, overcome obstacles, and trust in God’s plan for our lives. Whether you are facing a difficult decision or struggling to find direction, exploring what the Bible says about moving forward can provide you with the inspiration and wisdom you need to take the next step.

Moving forward is an important theme in the Bible. Philippians 3:13-14 says, “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.” This verse encourages us to keep our focus on the future and not dwell on the past. Additionally, Isaiah 43:18-19 says, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” This verse reminds us that God is always doing something new and we should trust Him and move forward with faith.

What Does the Bible Say About Moving Forward?

Moving forward can be a daunting task, especially when we face challenges that seem insurmountable. However, the Bible provides guidance on how to move forward in times of adversity. Here are ten key teachings from the Bible on moving forward.

1. Trust in God

The Bible teaches us to trust in God to guide us through difficult times. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” When we trust in God, we can have faith that he will lead us in the right direction.

One way to trust in God is through prayer. Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

2. Let go of the past

Moving forward often requires letting go of the past. Isaiah 43:18-19 says, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” When we let go of the past, we can focus on the present and future.

3. Learn from mistakes

Mistakes are a part of life, but we can learn from them and use them to move forward. Proverbs 24:16 says, “For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again, but the wicked stumble when calamity strikes.” When we learn from our mistakes, we can become stronger and wiser.

4. Have a positive attitude

Having a positive attitude can make all the difference when moving forward. Philippians 4:8 says, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” When we focus on the positive, we can have hope for the future.

5. Persevere through trials

Trials are a part of life, but we can persevere through them with God’s help. James 1:2-4 says, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” When we persevere through trials, we can become stronger and more resilient.

6. Seek wisdom

Seeking wisdom can help us make wise decisions when moving forward. Proverbs 3:13-14 says, “Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold.” When we seek wisdom, we can make choices that align with God’s will.

7. Surround yourself with support

Having a support system can make all the difference when moving forward. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 says, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.” When we surround ourselves with support, we can lean on others for encouragement and guidance.

8. Take action

Moving forward often requires taking action. James 2:14-17 says, “What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,’ but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” When we take action, we can make progress toward our goals.

9. Forgive others

Forgiveness is essential when moving forward. Colossians 3:13 says, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” When we forgive others, we can release the burden of bitterness and move forward in peace.

10. Embrace change

Moving forward often requires embracing change. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” When we embrace change, we can become transformed and align with God’s will for our lives.

In conclusion, moving forward can be challenging, but the Bible provides guidance on how to do so with faith and wisdom. By trusting in God, letting go of the past, learning from mistakes, having a positive attitude, persevering through trials, seeking wisdom, surrounding ourselves with support, taking action, forgiving others, and embracing change, we can move forward with confidence and hope for the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Bible say about leaving the past behind?

The Bible teaches us that we should forget what is behind us and focus on what lies ahead (Philippians 3:13). This means that we should not dwell on our past mistakes, but instead look forward with hope and faith. We should also forgive others who have wronged us and let go of any bitterness we may be holding onto.

God promises to make all things new and to give us a fresh start (Isaiah 43:18-19). By trusting in Him and His plans for our lives, we can move forward with confidence and joy, knowing that He is always with us.

How can I trust God and move forward?

Trusting in God can be difficult, especially when we are facing uncertainty or difficult circumstances. However, the Bible reminds us that God is faithful and trustworthy (Psalm 33:4) and that He has a good plan for our lives (Jeremiah 29:11).

To trust God and move forward, we must first surrender our fears and doubts to Him in prayer. We can also read and meditate on His Word, which will give us wisdom and strength for the journey ahead. Finally, we can surround ourselves with other believers who will encourage and support us along the way.

What does the Bible say about taking risks?

The Bible encourages us to take risks and step out in faith, trusting that God will guide and protect us (Proverbs 3:5-6). However, it also warns us against being reckless or foolish in our actions (Proverbs 14:16).

Before taking a risk, we should seek God’s guidance through prayer and wise counsel from trusted friends and mentors. We should also consider the potential consequences of our actions and make sure that we are following God’s will for our lives.

What does the Bible say about perseverance?

The Bible teaches us that perseverance is essential for our spiritual growth and maturity (James 1:2-4). It also reminds us that we will face trials and challenges in this life, but that we can overcome them through faith in God (John 16:33).

To persevere, we must keep our eyes fixed on Jesus and trust in His strength and power (Hebrews 12:1-3). We can also draw encouragement from other believers who have gone before us and overcome similar challenges.

How can I let go of fear and move forward?

Fear can be a powerful obstacle to moving forward in life, but the Bible tells us that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline (2 Timothy 1:7). To let go of fear, we must first acknowledge it and bring it to God in prayer.

We can also memorize and meditate on Bible verses that speak to our fears and give us courage and confidence. Finally, we can take small steps of faith each day, trusting that God will guide and protect us as we move forward.

You Have To Move Forward | Steven Furtick

In conclusion, moving forward is an essential aspect of life that the Bible speaks to. The scriptures encourage us to forget what is behind and strain towards what is ahead, pressing on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called us. We should not be held back by past failures and disappointments but instead, learn from them and use them as stepping stones towards a brighter future.

Moreover, moving forward requires faith and trust in God’s plan for our lives. We must surrender our fears, doubts, and uncertainties to Him and trust that He will guide us along the right path. We should seek His counsel through prayer and scripture reading to ensure that we are moving in the direction that He has intended for us.

Lastly, moving forward should be accompanied by an attitude of hope. We should have hope in the promises of God, knowing that He has plans to prosper us and not to harm us, plans to give us hope and a future. With this hope, we can face the future with confidence, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.