Daily Devo
Unnecessary Weight
By: Kathie Welch
Thursday, January 8, 2026
Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. Colossians 3:2 (NKJV)
It's always wise to follow the instructions in this verse, but perhaps the start of a new year should compel us to be more resolute in doing so. Why? Because many Christ followers are holding on to things from their past, and it is preventing them from moving forward.
...I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead. Philippians 3:13 (NLT)
In this verse, Paul is not telling us to totally disregard our past, he's telling us not to let the past hinder our future. Paul often uses the metaphor of running a race to illustrate the challenges of Christianity. Paul is pointing out that it's difficult to run a race if we're carrying an unnecessary weight.
That's why Paul says we must let go of anything that will keep us from reaching the goals God sets before us. Dwelling on our past mistakes, disappointments, or even on our accomplishments can cloud our ability to see God's will. We know God will help us navigate past life's trials, but Paul is reminding us not to take any unnecessary baggage along with us. How? By reflecting on the past; confessing sin when necessary, and learning from our failures. We can reflect on the past to learn from it, but we can't let it hinder our forward progress.
The Bible gives us many strategies to move forward freely and effectively. For example, we know we should read our Bibles daily, but we can take the additional step of memorizing a few key verses of empowerment. Give it a try, then speak one of them out loud the next time Satan tries to discourage you. Here are a few verses that are meaningful to me:
- 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. Proverbs 3:5-6. Trust God! He sees, knows, and controls the future in ways we can't understand.
- For we live by faith, not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:7 When the way forward seems cloudy and dark, God's Word is a lamp for our feet and a light for our path.
- ...God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 His ways are higher, and His thoughts are greater than ours will ever be.
Christ follower, I urge you to know and hold on to the promises found in God's Word. Use them to move forward this year and let them empower you!