Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

Isaiah 43:18-19

 

Are you plagued by memories of a painful past, memories of being treated hurtfully? It’s hard to put those behind, but I wonder if Jesus could be an example for us?

After the resurrection, forgetting how he had been hurt, Jesus carried on with what currently faced him. All that was on his mind was preparing his disciples for when he would physically no longer be with them. Paying no attention to how these friends had abandoned him as he was led to the cross, he gathered them together, and proceeded to give them instructions on how to go out and take his message to the world.

There was no time or reason to think of what was past.

How could you learn from Jesus? God understands and offers compassion. He also offers hope.

Neurological understanding explains how a traumatized brain can change when the mind, body and emotions experience life that includes healthy change and security. When this new reality takes the place of the old, traumatic memories can start fading away. Healing becomes possible.

The very act of focusing on something new and promising will make a difference. We will not think so much about the past. It can happen when more positive thoughts fill our minds, when more engaging activities fill our time, when we forgive those who hurt us and work towards reconciliation.

Good can come from our pain. God can use our pain and transform us to better serve his purposes.

Writing my story has, to a large extent, replaced some of my traumatic memories and brought healing. More than that, I feel it’s been a way to serve God. A good reason for living.

Telling your story for others to read is an example of an activity that can bring healing to you as well. Readers will learn to understand you and others like you. Not only that, you could be helping others who have been hurt like you were. They will realize they’re not alone.

What is your reality? The present or the past? The new or the old? What kind of new reality could God help you pursue that would help your painful past fade away? There’s no time or reason to think of what’s in the past.

What does God have waiting for you?

marja