Henry Thoreau wisely advised to, “never look back unless you are planning to go that way.” Yet, how many of us still break into a cold sweat when reminded of the things we once said & did? Thankfully, our past doesn’t have to haunt, or hinder us. For our new life in Christ sets us free & empowers us to abandon the following burdens forever:

Self: It’s literally out with the old & in with the new for those who have surrendered their life to Jesus (2Corinthians 5:17). Although our past can’t be erased, does our mind still dwell there & foster shame? We can be confident knowing our “old self” is a mirage that no longer exists. Instead, our new reflection is that of our Savior, who now lovingly resides as an oasis in & through us (2Corinthians 3:18).

Strongholds: Our surrender to Christ means nothing has the right, or authority to be our Lord & Master other than Him – this includes people, possessions, problems & passions. Are we allowing such things to hinder & hold us captive? Let’s not linger amidst the rubble, for those prisons to our potential in & for Christ have been destroyed! We have been set free & never need to return to their walls again (Isaiah 43:18).

Sin: Although relentless in its pursuit to steal, kill & destroy the gospel & our testimonies, sin is incapable of overpowering Christ’s church (Matthew 16:18). Therefore, we are never defenseless, or in a position of surrender & compromise. Do the deceptive pleasures of sin still allure us closer? Let’s gear up! For in Christ we have been equipped for victory & never need to surrender as victims (Ephesians 6:11).

Application: “Free For Forward Focus” – Galatians 5:1
When we look back on those things that once held us captive & refuse to leave our broken shackles behind, they only serve to focus us on flaws & limitations. Therefore, let us abandon them with joyful praise & direct our attention to our loving Savior who enables us to step forward into the abundant new life He has prepared for us (Philippians 3:13).