Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. - 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV)
I was talking with my sister the other day and we were discussing the phrase “Don’t let the past define you.” I was explaining that this phrase doesn’t click with me because I am attached to my past and I see it and feel it. We discussed further about how God sees us and that we are defined by what He sees and what He did for us and that is where we are identified, in Christ.
With that thought in mind, for those of us who struggle with the thought of others judging us by what we have been through or think that our past is a deal breaker for the Lord, this is where a redemptive story will begin. The one that tells of a past without Christ and how He sought us out and He forgave our repentant heart and how His love walks us through our judgments against ourselves into a new life, a new beginning, with Christ.
The past may hurt and there may be shame attached, but God has offered His forgiveness through Jesus who took upon Himself the sin of the world so that we may believe in Him and receive His gift of a new life and one that is eternal. (John 3:16)
Let’s be mindful of this warning from Christ; The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came so that they would have life and have it abundantly. - John 10:10 (NASB)
Heavenly Father, Thank You for teaching us that we can make peace with our past, we can forgive others and ourselves and accept how You see us. Give us the strength to let go of attachments in our hearts and minds that would keep us from walking an abundant life with You.
This devotion by author, Terrie Miles, is exclusively and solely shared with permission to New Beginnings Church. Any unauthorized printed reproduction, sharing or use of this material is prohibited.
