Don’t get stuck in the past! Dwelling on the past prevents us from moving forward with our life. The great prophet Isaiah said, “Forget the former things; and do not dwell on the past.” When we focus on the past, we miss the exciting new opportunities that God is presenting right in front of us.
When people reflect on their past, it often seems to take on the characteristic of a real-life being. But the past cannot breathe, talk, think, or do anything for the present. So, why would we dwell on awful things that dwarf our future? Our outlook for the future should be positive and hopeful.
Put the past behind you. When you do, you are ready to move forward. Discouragement, hopelessness, and the like have no place in your mind. You should follow Paul’s advice to the Philippians: “Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended, but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead. I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call.”
Looking back on our past can prevent us from forgiving someone who has offended us. For example, when someone hurts you, you have two choices: take the high road or the low road. The low road of retaliation leads to a dead end, and something within you begins to die spiritually. But when you take the high road, you grow stronger, wiser, and more mature.
When you get stuck in the past, it’s always at the expense of the future. Remember that God has better days and better things in store for you. So, forgive, forget, and move forward.
If you don’t forgive, you may be trapped in a victim’s mentality of bitterness and resentment. By choosing forgiveness, you can release the weight of past suffering and embrace the opportunities for growth and a brighter future. So, be blessed and Never Give Up! Never Give Up! Never Give Up!
By Dr. Walter Ghosten
chaplain@lhp.net
