At times, we all make mistakes. In remembering our personal past, we are reminded of          embarrassing and depressing situations.

Wasn’t Moses trapped by his past? For 40 years,  wanted for murder, he hid in the desert (Exodus 2:11-3:6).

Charmed by the beautiful Bathsheba, King David committed adultery and homicide (2 Samuel 11:1-17). This lay heavily on his heart until he found forgiveness (Psalm 51).

The Apostle Paul storms onto the pages of the New Testament hauling Christians off to jail (Acts 8:3).

The Bible’s saints made mistakes and committed sins that could have destroyed their usefulness. Yet they triumphed over their past. So can you.

How? Say with the Apostle Paul, “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14).

Whenever you do something wrong, confess it, as David did, and experience God’s forgiveness.  "Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin."  — Psalm 51:1-2

After confessing to God, make amends as best you can. And believe the Bible’s clear teaching that God’s providential hand is in everything that happens. He can weave even our wounds and mistakes into the pattern of his ongoing purpose. “In all things God works for the good of those who love him…” (Romans 8:28).

~ from Guideposts