Letting Go of Your PastNäide

Day 2: Forgetting Your Past

Everyone has a past. A story that’s been touched by pain, regret, or failure. People have hurt you, and you’ve likely done some things you wish you hadn’t. What comes to mind when you think back? Are there moments you’d rather erase? Memories you wish you could rewrite?

This is where the Gospel brings such deep comfort. Romans 8:1 says, “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus” (NKJV). That includes your past. All of it. In Christ, you are not declared guilty because of your past. You are saved from it. But even when you know this truth, the question still remains: What should you do with your past now? The Bible gives us a simple path forward. Forget. Forgive. Forsake.

First, forget your past. This doesn’t mean erasing it from your memory, but choosing not to live there anymore. Looking backward will only slow you down. You’ve probably noticed that when you keep glancing in the rearview mirror, you end up veering off course. It’s the same in your spiritual life. Constantly replaying your mistakes will only bring unnecessary guilt and distraction. When memories resurface, and they will, you need to decide not to stay there. You are free to move forward.

I’ve found that the only way I can stop dwelling on the past is to focus on what God wants to do next. I can’t fix my mind on two things at once. When I stay in the Word, when I meditate on God’s promises just like Joshua was instructed to do (Joshua 1:8), I find hope. I’m reminded that God still has more ahead. The future God has for you is not found in yesterday; it’s found in following Him today.

Your future is just a decision away. One choice to trust. One step of obedience. One quiet moment of surrender. Let go of what’s behind you. God is calling you to move forward. He’s not asking you to carry guilt. He’s asking you to follow Him. You are free in Christ. So, live like it. Keep your eyes on Jesus. The past has no hold on a heart that’s been made new.

Guided Prayer: Father, I thank You for the comfort You give. I trust You, and I know that as I keep my eyes firmly fixed on You, You will help me forget my past regrets and mistakes and give me the strength to move forward. I know You have good plans for me. Today I choose to follow You and believe the truth that You have made me new. Amen