What is it? What past failure do you still feel awful about? When the memory of that horrible decision hits, it can make you feel worthless, unworthy of God’s love. 

Don’t live in the past! Pastor Paul wrote to the new Christians in Philippi, explaining how to live differently, to live in forgiveness: “Brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Philippians 4:8). Why just think about them? Why not command us to do them? Because Paul knew how God built us. Where our focus is, there we follow. If you focus on the negativity of your past, you’ll be negative, hurting yourself and others. But if you think about what is true, noble, right . . . that’s what the Spirit will lead you to do!

Live unshackled; live freely forgiven both by God and by yourself!

I have a challenge for you. It’ll be awkward at first, but soon it will transform you. Each time you’re in the bathroom, look at yourself in the mirror. There’s no place to hide. Say to yourself, “I’m forgiven by Jesus. I forgive me. I’m worth it.” It’s personal and powerful.

Your mind knows you’re forgiven and changed. Your heart is where the battle rages. Speak to yourself, to your heart, that you are worth it. If you doubt your value, look to the cross, and you’ll see just how much you’re truly worth!