SUNDAY ENCOUNTER( FORGETTING THE PAST) with Apostle Jonathan Annan

In Genesis 31, we witness the story of Rachel, one of the wives of Jacob, and her actions regarding her father's gods. Rachel, driven by a desire to protect her family and secure her own position, secretly steals her father Laban's household idols as they flee from his household. This act is significant as it illustrates Rachel's determination to break free from the customs and expectations of her past, which were inhibiting her ability to fully embrace her role as Jacob's wife.

The customs of Rachel's father, Laban, were deeply ingrained in their society and posed obstacles for Rachel in asserting herself as the primary wife. Despite her love for Jacob, Rachel found herself in a position where she had to contend with the traditions and preferences of her father, which often overshadowed her own desires and needs.

However, by taking along her father's gods, Rachel symbolically breaks ties with her past and demonstrates her willingness to leave behind the constraints that held her back. This action serves as a powerful metaphor for the message of Apostle Jonathan Annan's teaching on "Forgetting the Past." Just as Rachel took decisive action to separate herself from her past, believers are encouraged to let go of the burdens and limitations of their past experiences in order to fully embrace the future that God has planned for them.

In essence, Rachel's story in Genesis 31 serves as a reminder of the importance of breaking free from the customs and expectations of the past in order to move forward with faith and confidence in God's plan. It highlights the transformative power of letting go of the past and embracing a new beginning, free from the constraints of old traditions and cultural expectations.