“It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do
not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.”
Galatians 5:1 (NASB)
Over the past few years, I’ve begun to analyze lingering un-forgiveness, insecurities, fears, and distorted beliefs I’ve clung to most of my life. In the process, I’ve discovered, most have been a direct result of painful experiences from my past. Since I began identifying the roots of my issues and started making necessary repairs, I am no longer bound to the bitterness and triggers and issues my past pain left behind.
Today, I’m better prepared to embrace forgiveness more fully, overcome insecurities more regularly, face my fears more faithfully, and replace my distorted beliefs more consistently with truth from God’s Word.
Let us examine and probe our ways, And let us return to the Lord.
Lamentations 3:40 (NASB)
It’s vital we identify the roots of our negative attitudes, bad behaviors, and distorted beliefs so we can bring them into the light where they can be healed.
“Sanctification does not mean we don’t go back to the past as we press ahead to what God has for us – It actually demands we go back in order to break free from unhealthy and destructive patterns that prevent us from loving ourselves and others the way God designed.” Peter Scazzero
When we consider a great biblical example of someone who had every right to build up resentment, bitterness, un-forgiveness, and fear as a result of his past, we can’t help but think of the life of Joseph in Genesis chapters 37-45.
Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, taken to a foreign country, and thrust into numerous painful experiences — at the hands of others who were jealous, bitter, resentful, and solely focused on their own prosperity. All the while, Joseph remained fearless, faithful, focused, and forgiving.
So, our question must be — “How was Joseph able to persevere in the midst of these devastating experiences?” The answer lies in His ability to keep his eyes on God and focus on God’s plans for his life, in spite of his circumstances.
Are you holding on to traces of your past that you need to let go of? If so, consider implementing the following steps and be set free.
- Spend time each morning asking God to help you identify your negative attitudes, behaviors, and beliefs. Journal what He reveals to you.
- Search God’s Word for truth and memorize scripture that encourages you to make positive changes in your life.
- Find a safe friend who will give you godly advice and meet with them regularly.
- Ask God to direct your path toward healing, and lay any painful memories at the foot of the cross where they can be healed.
- Commit Psalm 139:23-34 to memory and let this be your daily prayer:
“Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me and know my anxious thoughts;
And see if there be any hurtful way in me, And lead me in the everlasting way.” (NASB)
- Consider the possibility that you may need additional help and ask someone reliable to recommend a really good Christian Counselor.
Remember, Life’s experiences influence our beliefs and behaviors, but God doesn’t want us to live in bondage to them. What will you do today to begin letting your past go so you can experience true freedom?
