August 20, 2016 WWJWMTD by Steve the son of John

Living Without Your Past/Changing Your Future

Often our past defines our future. That is OK if your past was good and productive. But, what if, your past was full of disappointment, problems, and confusion. Our past hangs onto us. We refer back to our past so many times while we talk and what we are thinking about. We do not let go of the damage our past has caused us. This is sad!

We do not only do this to ourselves but also to our spouse, friends, family and community. I do not forget what a person is like, but I do know that their past does not have to keep determining their future. Christ does redeem us!

There are individuals that indeed struggle. I cannot trust them in various situations or depend on them for certain tasks. However, I love them just the same and pray that their past mistakes do not hinder them from having hope and a changed life.

We care not to admit, but we easily forgive and correct our behavior, but we do not allow others to change their behavior or destructive habits. We make sure they remain in their past. Satan not only has a hold on those who are in bondage to their past but now we also are in bondage to their past.

The evil one seeks nothing else than to destroy each and every one of us, and he does this by reminding us of our past so we are unable to hope for a future. You and I need to let go of so many events in our past and stop allowing Satan from having control over us.

Wisdom that is from God is supposed to correct all of this. The books of Proverbs and James define wisdom for us. Wisdom is not being smart or clever nor is it based on your IQ. Wisdom from God has three major characteristics: it is to identify evil; it guides us in ‘asking the Father’ and what words to say; and it shapes us to be humble. This singular tri-fold purpose of wisdom is accomplished so one can overcome fear and act in faith.

Wisdom offers more hope to Christians than any other spiritual gift and creates an atmosphere for one to let go of their past in order to have a future. God does not want us to be bound by our past or anyone else’s past. God wants us free. We are meant to be free—free from all mistakes, either our misdoings as well as other people’s bondage. You want to have a future, look to wisdom by gaining freedom from yours and others destructive past behaviors and decisions. God says you can have wisdom for the asking.

So begin asking and see your past mistakes, hurts and harmful consequences vanish away. Let’s get rid of our past for we can have a bright future in Christ. Yes, ask for wisdom and Christ will be at the door of your heart knocking.

WWJWMTD

What would Jesus want me to do?

Dr. Steven J. Wentland www.wwjwmtd.com

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