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(Isaiah 43:18-19) “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?
Part 4: RECURRING TACTICS THE TEMPTER USES — 12. Nostalgia and Sentimentalism (Keeping us focused on the past or on feelings rather than God’s present work).
Nostalgia hits all of us! It comes along as a fond memory, or a song, or a smell. It whispers sweetly of days gone by, wrapping everything in a golden hue...
The problem is that when we indulge ourselves in the warm embrace of the past, we can, quite easily, find it drawing us away from the present.
It always starts off so innocently, too. A fond recollection, a longing sigh, and soon the present fades beneath the weight of what was.
The tempter uses this longing to anchor us in what cannot be relived. Instead of adventurers, we become historians of our own lives, curating moments that soothe but also stall our growth. Our eyes turn backwards, missing God’s work here and now.
This is terribly wrong! Because we are called to live in the present, to embrace the newness of each day. (Hebrews 11), [The chapter of faith which speaks of heroes who trusted God in the unknowns].
- Recognise the Pull: Notice when memories hold you back rather than inspire you forward. Acknowledge the beauty of the past without letting it overshadow the present.
- Embrace Change: This is always difficult for anyone apart from the Holy Spirit. We need to submit to Him and welcome the new opportunities and challenges that each day brings. God’s work is a continuous unfolding, not a static relic.
- Engage in the Present: Invest in current relationships and tasks. Pour your energy into where you are now, trusting that God will lead and meet you there.
- Celebrate Growth: When you feel drawn to look back, then determine to reflect on how far you’ve come and how God has been faithful through every season. Let this strength fuel your journey onward.
- Seek God’s Presence Today: Focus on God’s work in the present. Look for His fingerprints in your daily life and lean into His ongoing story.
By doing so, we release nostalgia’s grip, open our hearts to God’s vibrant work in the here and now, and allow His grace to weave through our present moments, equipping us to serve and bless others as instruments of God’s new work today.
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Let us pray, "Heavenly Father, You know that it's much easier for us to sit here and live in the past. Once again, I ask for the Holy Spirit Power to trust You and fight through the problem ... I need You, Holy Spirit." Amen!
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URGENT PRAYER REQUESTS (Please keep checking as more are being added almost daily)