Many people are caught up in the past. Maybe they struggle with their past sins, past choices. Maybe they struggle with past failures. Maybe they struggle with the baggage of failed relationships. But the one who allows the past to help mold into a better person without allowing it to weigh down is the real hero.

 Our past should never define who we are today. We should allow our past to help us transform our future by learning from our mistakes, but we must also learn to let go. If we keep our eyes focused on the past, we will miss the future God has for us.

As God’s children, we should have our eyes firmly planted on the One who holds the future. We should focus on the purpose for which He created us. We should constantly be striving for the rewards He has planned for us. With our eyes focused firmly on the prize for which He has called us, we cannot lose ourselves in past regrets- Dena Johnson.

Paul was an optimistic spiritual hero who kept his eyes focused firmly ahead:

“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:13-14

Dear Lord, please help me to move on from my past. There are people and things I need to forget that are taking over my life. I know if I don’t let go they will eat me alive. God, soothe my heart and calm my soul and teach me to live the life You have given me. We ask this in your most powerful name, our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns forever and ever!