Move On/Forward

Moving on involves emotionally letting go of a significant or painful situation. Life presents various challenges that may require accepting circumstances and moving forward, regardless of previous experiences such as relationship difficulties, unsuccessful marriages, or unresolved work issues. This involves consciously releasing emotional attachment and learning from the past, eventually finding new purpose in community or creative pursuits. Furthermore, recognising that every experience can teach us something valuable helps transform setbacks into opportunities for growth.

When an individual turns from sin and places faith in Jesus Christ, becoming a new creation, they receive forgiveness of sins (2 Cor 5:17; 1 Jn 1:9). For believers, this principle holds: forgiveness is extended upon confession of wrongdoing. However, release from the penalty of sin does

Forgiveness is central to moving on, in our relationship with God and others

not always equate to release from feelings of guilt or memories of past actions. Persistent reminders of failures and faults may hinder spiritual progress with Satan, the accuser, intending to keep us locked in with guilt and condemnation, unable to progress on with the Lord (Rev 12:10). Discernment is necessary to determine when it is appropriate to remain steadfast and trust in God's work, and when it is advisable to move forward emotionally and physically. A period of adjustment, marked by grief and acceptance, typically occurs as we adapt and heal. Engaging in prayer for guidance in forgiveness and self-reflection regarding unresolved grievances can facilitate personal growth.

Before we can move ahead successfully, the sin must be genuinely dealt with. This is not just a glib ‘I’m sorry God’ with no lasting or intentional lifestyle change. The requirement is to “Produce fruit in keeping with repentance” which may include making physical restoration, asking for forgiveness from those you have wronged and certainly forgiving others for their involvement and a lifestyle change (Mt 3:8, 6:14; Lk 19:8; Act 3:19; Eph 4:32). It is only as the issue is addressed that we can claim the promise of God that He will forgive sin and remove guilt, based on the blood of Christ and our joy that comes with freedom from guilt be restored (Ps 51:12, 85:2, 86:5; Rom 8:1).

While forgiveness is available, the lingering effects of guilt – both true and false – can hold us back. True guilt stems from genuine wrongdoing and is meant to lead us to repentance and restoration. However, feelings of condemnation often persist even after confession, fuelled by internal doubts or negative influences. For example, someone may continue to feel guilty about past mistakes, even after making amends and seeking God’s forgiveness. Ask yourself: ‘Am I holding onto guilt that God has already forgiven?’ Taking thoughts captive and focusing on God’s promises can help break the cycle of self-condemnation.

We need a release in our minds for Satan’s power over us is effectively broken, and we shouldn’t be impacted by the old kingdom ruled by the devil (1 Jn 3:8). However, we have been programmed by our sinful nature and individual weaknesses to respond to its now illegitimate default demands, including false guilt (Ps 103:8-12). As God does not hold our confessed sins against us, neither should we (Ps 51:1,2; 1 Jn 1:7-9). If sin has been confessed, repented of, and forgiven, it is time to move on into the victory Jesus died to provide for us. It is critical to take our thoughts captive, directing our mind in a positive and beneficial direction and not controlled by the past, instead turning my full attention to entering into the abundant life and purpose He has for us (Jn 10:10; Rom 12:2; 2 Cor 10:4: Phil 3:7,8,13,14, 4:8). Do I consider my Christian growth a priority?

Observe David’s description of the deep awareness of wrongdoing (conviction of sin) and the genuine sense of responsibility and remorse (true guilt) that accompany it. He acknowledges how this burden weighed heavily on him until he honestly confessed his sins to God, which brought relief and restoration (Ps 32:3-5). Just as David recognised his need for forgiveness, we too are called to reflect on our own lives and address unresolved issues, ensuring that what we build moving forward rests on a solid and reliable foundation. This process is ongoing – much like David, we may find that new matters arise from time to time that require our attention. Even though God already knows every aspect of our lives, we need to be completely open and honest before Him, asking for His guidance to reveal any hidden areas that still need confession and healing (Psalm 139:23-24).

Has God asked something of me that I am unwilling to yield to Him? If so, this will prevent forward progress, as will holding onto destructive emotions such as bitterness and unforgiveness, together with revisiting hurtful experiences. We should never be content with our present standing in Christ. His goal for us is always a more righteous

We are responsible for our obedience and walking with the Lord

state (Rom 8:29; Phil 1:6). This demands we put off the old sinful life to embrace the new (Eph 4:22-24). We should have the attitude of Caleb, who, although acknowledging he was old, was still strong and vigorous and wanted his designated inheritance (Josh 14:10-12). Rather than looking back, keep your eyes on Jesus who wants to lead us on (Heb 12:1,2).

Satan desires to keep us bound and held back by the experiences of life. Yet Christ’s aim is that through those same situations we come into freedom in Him. All challenges can be overcome by trusting our Saviour, following the Word, and listening to His guidance. While in this life we will still struggle with various issues, the power they exert over us should be submissive to the power of God that we permit to operate in our lives, for the Bible exhorts us to offer ourselves to God and sin is not to be our master (Rom 6:13,14; 1 Jn 4:4). With these various scenarios and when our own needs have not been met, we must guard our response, whether it be grieving or criticism. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who walks with you through every season, offering hope, freedom, and abundant life.