Our Past and Future

In 2016, many of us experienced hardship and disappointments as we stepped into 2017 with unfulfilled dreams.  Others experienced joy and celebrations as their dreams came true.  Maybe we had a combination of both: the good and the bad.  We can all step away from 2016 with lessons learned and a stronger faith in God.

As flawed human beings, we tend to get stuck in the past and never seek future endeavors.  We hinder ourselves from moving past the disappointments and unfulfilled dreams to see our future as God sees it.

Last year, 2016, is in our past. Memories were shared, tears were cried, and defining moments were made. In 2017, is for new beginnings. It is a fresh start for relationships, new achievements, and a new you. It is a time to embark on new adventures, create new memories, and to celebrate joyful moments. We need to embrace the new year with a new attitude, a giving spirit, and a joyful heart.

A Christian band, Big Daddy Weave, wrote a song called, “My Story.” We all have stories to tell about 2016. We must understand that our stories from our past makes us who we are today. So many people carry their shame and regret over to the new year. The truth is our stories tell about who Jesus is. We are victorious through Christ. We find freedom through Christ. We have mercy through Christ. Instead of silencing our stories, we need to speak out about who Jesus is in your lives as a testimony. The struggles we experience on a day-t0-day basis can be turned into a Jesus moment.

The lyrics to the song above says that “if I told you my story, you would hear victory over the enemy…you would hear freedom that was won for me…you would hear life overcome the grave.” That is powerful! God will overcome satan, give us freedom from bondage, and give us live again through Him.

In 2017, I challenge you to let go of 2016 and allow God to overwhelm you with His peace. I pray that you forgive yourself for the bad decisions you have made in 2016 and let 2017 be a fresh start for you. Let 2016 be a testimony of God’s grace and mercy in your life. I encourage you to be an overcomer and fight against the bondage and discouragement you faced in 2016. The new year, 2017, brings hope to those who feel hopeless. It brings freedom to those who are heavy burdened. Walk into 2017 with confidence and joy.  Stay focused on Jesus through the good and the bad, and keep your faith no matter what comes your way.