Craig Brown | Founder | Stop Hiding Start Healing
Stop dwelling on the past. Don’t even remember these former things. I am doing something brand new, something unheard of. Even now it sprouts and grows and matures. Don’t you perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and open up flowing streams in the desert.—Isaiah 43:18-19
1. Before We Try and Create a New Past, We Must First Deal With the Old One
The first step to creating a new past is acknowledging and addressing the one we’re carrying. Here’s how:
- Admit Captivity to the Past: Recognize the pain, bitterness, and shame that hold you hostage. Denial keeps us stuck; acknowledgment sets us free.
- Let Go of Unnecessary Baggage: Whether it’s past failures or unresolved guilt, these burdens weigh us down. Choose to release what no longer serves you.
- Process Your Pain: This involves journaling or taking an inventory of your experiences. Writing things down is cathartic and offers healing.
- Be Patient: Healing takes time. Embrace the process without rushing it.
- Make Amends: If it’s safe and possible, mend relationships with those from your past. This step often unlocks profound freedom.
- Surrender Resentments: Imagine letting go of a rope in a tug-of-war game. True peace begins when we stop pulling against the weight of old grudges.
Scripture reminds us, “Don’t even remember these former things.” This isn’t about denial but about refusing to let the past define your present or dictate your future.
2. We Have an Opportunity to Create a New Past Every Day
Every sunrise offers a fresh start. Each day, we face a choice: cling to the past or create something new. Here’s how to embrace this:
- Lay the Groundwork: Dealing with the past isn’t just necessary—it’s transformative. It clears the path for a new beginning.
- Change Your Thinking and Behaviors: Shift your mindset, adjust your actions, and adopt a more positive attitude.
- Seek God’s Wisdom and Strength: True transformation is impossible without divine guidance and grace. Lean on God for the courage to rebuild.
- Celebrate Recovery: This ministry serves as a foundation for many, offering tools for progress and support.
In recovery, each day becomes a building block for a new past. Over time, when you reflect, you’ll see hope, freedom, healing, and progress. The shame, guilt, and regret that once dominated your narrative will fade into the background.
3. Maintaining Your New Past Requires Perseverance and Effort
Creating a new past is not a one-time event; it’s a daily commitment. Here’s how to stay the course:
- Commit to Prayer: Begin each day with a prayer, inviting God’s presence to sustain your journey.
- Face the Pain: Growth often involves running through the pain, not away from it.
- Rely on God’s Strength: Dependence on the Holy Spirit’s gift of self-control replaces self-reliance.
- Address Triggers: Don’t ignore warning signs. Be proactive in managing potential setbacks.
- Stay Connected: Isolation is the enemy of recovery. Seek fellowship and accountability within a supportive community.
- Participate in Support Groups: Whether it’s Celebrate Recovery or another group, regular attendance provides encouragement and accountability.
As Isaiah 43:19 proclaims, “I am doing something brand new, something unheard of.” God is actively working to transform your life, one step at a time.
Final Reflection
Creating a new past isn’t about rewriting history; it’s about redeeming it. By dealing with the old, embracing each day’s opportunities, and persevering in faith, you can leave behind a legacy of hope and transformation—for yourself and others.
Let today be the start of something brand new.