In Isaiah Chapter 43, God gives us this encouragement and instruction. He says, “Remember not the former things, neither consider the things of old...” Some of “the things” that God was telling them not to remember were the good things that He had previously done. He is encouraging us to do the same today. Think about that. It is easier when someone tells us to forget the bad, the troubles, and the heartaches . After all, who wants to remember the agony? But God is also including the positive. No matter how wonderful any previous move of God might have been, we are not to hold onto that either. If we do, the greatest hinderance may be that our focus will only be on what He did for us in the past, rather than what He desires to do for us in the future. We are to always be grateful and appreciative, but for Him to do something new, we must turn our attention to the present moment. It seems like a paradox. We must let go and embrace at the same time. I believe that we are being asked to do that as individuals, and collectively as a nation. There are some antiquated ways of thinking that have become unfruitful and it is time to let them go. We must recognize that they are rooted in negative and primitive thought processes. They are no longer relevant. If we refuse let go of what was, we will never be free to embrace what could be. Many people miss out on experiencing the greatness that God intends for them, because they have learned to settle for something good. When God starts shaking up what you thought was good, hopefully you will be quick to reach for what is great. For us to reach the higher level, God may allow our circumstances to become uncomfortable or even unbearable. If God is shaking you, then do not be alarmed. It means that you are a candidate for something in your future that is greater. Repetition breeds familiarity. It is easy to copy a formula. Sometimes you must get out of the realm of formula and into the realm of faith. Forget the limitations of the past. Remember them no more. Now you are free! You are dislodged and enabled to run the race that is before you. You have barely touched and tasted the potential inside of you!