It's Okay to Look Back, Just Don't Stare

Personal Development, Relationships, Faith

A mentor of mine once encouraged me by saying, "It's okay to look back, just don't stare." He shared that only a fool trips on what's behind them. When you really think about it, how CRAZY is it that we allow our past to hinder us from leaning into the wonderful opportunities today may offer?? Granted, walking through shame and guilt is never easy, and it's certainly tougher for some than others.

I obviously don't know all of the details of all of the lies you have allowed yourself to believe (that have convinced you that you can't move on), but I do know this: THEY ARE LIES. And here's the TRUTH: what you have done and/or what's been done to you DOES NOT DEFINE YOU. I know this to be true because I failed miserably in every single relationship prior to meeting my beautiful bride. Literally, every single relationship. They were all built on a foundation that could not last - desires of the flesh. And God used my wife, even before we were married, to remind me that I can choose life in the Spirit, and that I can work to build a relationship that honors Him, thanks to the work of Jesus on the cross. 

Jaala (or My Hot Wife, which is what she changed her name to in my phone) is a tangible form of grace - something special that was given to me that I clearly don’t deserve. When I look at her, I hear God saying these words to me: "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death." (Romans 8:1-2)

Is my marriage perfect? No. Am I the ideal husband and father? Not by a long shot. Do I have it all figured out? Of course not. But I do know I'm not the man I used to be. And whatever you're growing through, if you're moving in a positive direction, the same can be said for you. 

My friend, you may be wrestling with letting go of the past, but I challenge you to TURN BACK AROUND, LOOK AHEAD, and FIND THAT FORM OF GRACE in front of you that gives you a reason to come alive (it could be a number of things?!). Get around people who affirm you when they see you making the effort to let go of what is passing away. Set yourself up for success by reminding yourself early and often that each new day is a gift from God, and if you're still here, He isn't finished with you.

It's okay to look back, just don't stare, because our Heavenly Father is calling you to FOCUS FORWARD!

Love you guys. Let's grow.

JT