Dwight Fletcher | Build your better future

TODAY, WE’RE wrapping up our series on forgiving ourselves. It’s been quite a journey, as we’ve considered the way unforgiveness towards ourselves can lead to cycles of shame, guilt and possibly self-harm; while the power of self-forgiveness transforms our lives and opens up new opportunities for us. This forgiveness only comes after acknowledging our flaws, receiving God’s forgiveness, and taking the steps to move on.

However, forgiving ourselves is not enough. While we know that we are imperfect and will make mistakes, that doesn’t mean we merely throw up our hands, accept our failings as unavoidable and 'let ourselves off the hook'.

Instead, self-forgiveness should lead to healthier habits in the future. When we forgive ourselves, we’re making a statement about our self-worth: that we are valuable enough to be forgiven, rather than cast aside by God or ourselves. Since God doesn’t give up on us, we shouldn’t either.

So, what’s next? The building blocks for a better future! We establish safeguards in our lives that help to prevent us from falling back into the same destructive patterns that brought us shame and regret. These are vital for any believer trying to gain victory over their sin.

BUILDING BLOCKS FOR A BETTER FUTURE

1. Renew your mind – This means focusing on God-honouring thoughts, remaining vigilant about what we spend our time doing, and being intentional about learning more about God and who He made us to be.

2. Remain obedient to God – Even when it’s uncomfortable, unpopular or costly, you will never regret being obedient to God.

3. Continue to bounce back every time you fall – Proverbs 24:16 says “For a righteous man may fall seven times and rise again.” When you realise you’re not in good standing with God, get on your knees and repent immediately. No excuses. No hiding. Just freedom.

4. Surround yourself with a godly community – Healthy growth happens when you can receive support, advice, prayer and insight from those who love God and love you.

5. Be willing to use your story for His glory — This last one is so important because God does forgive the past, but He never erases it. He has a purpose for it. He allows your scars to help others.

Do you have baggage from the past? We all do. Look at what Paul, a famously scarred individual, writes in 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NLT, “All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.”

So, take a look at those things that have hurt you the most. After you have forgiven yourself, allow God to use those experiences and turn your past hurts into your most powerful ministry.

In the end, there are two roads that you can take when dealing with unforgiveness in your life. The first leads to life, and the second leads to death. The first is the road we just travelled together. It’s the road that Peter, Paul, David and so many other spiritual giants have travelled. It’s coming to God for forgiveness; then, with God’s help, changing our patterns from destructive to positive, and opening ourselves to an unlimited future that God has for us that includes helping others who are going through the same thing. Will you walk this road today?