Keep your eyes focused on what is right, and look straight ahead to what is good.

Proverbs 4:25 (NCV)

Humans have a tendency to hold onto things that hold us back. We go through life trying as hard as we can, but we can’t seem to make any progress away from our past. It’s like rowing with all our might, a rowboat that is tied securely to the dock. No matter how hard we row, we can’t break free. Things from our past often take control of our present, and we allow pain to be the dark lenses through which we see our present and anticipate our future. 

The Bible is full of people who had to let go of what held them back. They couldn’t serve God with their present and their future until they let go of their past. Abraham, Moses, Joseph, the apostles, and countless others all had to focus on what was RIGHT, not what was easy and familiar. Before they could be powerful for God, they had to focus on Him, His promises, on all that was good.

Most things in life can’t be undone. We can’t undo the hurt caused by other people. We can’t undo the pain of losing someone we love. And we can’t undo the things we regret that burden us with shame. When we keep our eyes focused on the past, we miss God’s goodness today. But when we focus our eyes on Jesus, it changes our perspective. It reminds us of His hope and joy and light. 

When you walk in dependence on Jesus, the rope that kept your boat tied to the dock no longer holds you. You no longer need to be a victim, or allow any pain to dictate how you live your today’s or your tomorrow’s. Pull away from the dock and live victoriously in Jesus! Rather than allowing your past to keep you stuck, let go and it will launch you into your future! You are so very loved!

“Getting over a painful experience is much like crossing monkey bars. You have to let go at some point in order to move forward.” – C.S. Lewis.