When The Past Paralyzes You
Author: Curtis and Tina Norton
May 20, 2019
When the Past Paralyzes You
“Saul got up from the ground,
but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand
into Damascus.” – Acts 9:8, NIV
Saul had spent his life doing
the “right” things—He came from the right family. He taught the “right”
doctrine. He zealously persecuted anyone who didn’t live up to his idea of
righteousness.
Then in one blinding moment,
Saul learns that he’s stood for the wrong things. He’s failed to understand the
Gospel of Christ. He’s struck blind and left wondering what’s next. He spends
the next few days in earnest prayer.
Finally, a man named Ananias
because of the prompting of the Holy Spirit. The other disciple lays hands on
Saul and he can see again.
But just because Saul has
become saved doesn’t mean that his past no longer exists. Rather than let his
past paralyze him, Saul immediately begins speaking out about his newfound
faith and the revolutionary change in his life.
If anyone could have let his
past mistakes and sins stop him from being an effective witness, it was Saul.
He had every reason to wait it out on the sidelines. But he didn’t. He chose to
step forward in faith, despite his failures and his fumbling.
As you look forward to a new
season, you might be overwhelmed by your past. Maybe you’re tempted to believe
that you should sit on the bench. But take a page from Saul’s playbook and
boldly proclaim the power of Jesus right where you are.
God, thank You for forgiving me. When my past seems to
haunt me, remind me to shine Your light and love wherever I am. In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
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