Today’s Jesus is Calling Devotional is on the topic, “Let Go of the Past.” The scripture text is from Philippians 3:13-14 and it conveys a powerful message about allowing the past to remain where it is without interfering with your joy in the present and your hope for the future.

Sometimes, the past can feel like a heavy weight we just can’t shake off. It could be bad memories, mistakes we’ve made, or things we wish we had done differently. Even though we might want to move forward, those memories seem to follow us around, haunting our thoughts and stealing our peace.

Whether it’s guilt, regrets, or just painful experiences, the past can be hard to forget. It’s like trying to walk forward while constantly looking back—impossible and draining. You might feel stuck, unable to escape the past. But the truth is, letting go is necessary if we want to live the full life God has planned for us.

As hard as it might be, letting go of the past is essential for us to move forward. We can’t grow or step into God’s future for us while we are still holding onto things that belong in the past. If we keep focusing on what happened back there, we miss out on the opportunities ahead.

Philippians 3:13 says, “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead.” The Apostle Paul is telling us that to reach our goal, we need to look forward and not let past mistakes or pain keep us from the calling God has for us. Think of it like driving a car—you can’t drive very well if you’re always looking in the rearview mirror. The road ahead is what matters, and that’s where we need to focus.

Letting go of the past isn’t something we can do on our own. We need the help of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is there to comfort us, guide us, and give us the strength to forgive ourselves and others. He helps us break free from past hurts and empowers us to focus on what God has for us. If we ask, He will give us the courage to face the past and let it go.

The process may not be easy, but the Holy Spirit helps us move forward one step at a time. When we feel weak or discouraged, He lifts us up, reminding us that God has a better future for us if we are willing to move past the old.

So how can we begin the process of letting go? It starts with acknowledging what holds us back. Is it a specific event? A hurtful word spoken long ago? Once we recognize it, we can bring it to God in prayer and ask Him to help us heal. Another step is forgiveness—sometimes, it’s not just about forgiving others but also forgiving ourselves.

God already forgave us, but we may need to forgive ourselves to be free. Lastly, take small steps of faith each day. Trust that God will help you move forward, even when it feels difficult. You don’t have to do it all at once. Little by little, with the Holy Spirit’s help, you will begin to experience freedom from the past and a new sense of peace.

Prayer for the Day:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for Your love and grace. I admit that I have struggled with letting go of my past, but I know that You have called me to something greater. Please help me to forget what is behind and look forward to the future You have planned for me. Holy Spirit, I ask You to heal my heart and guide me as I release the pain, regrets, and hurts of my past. I forgive those who have hurt me, and I also ask You to help me forgive myself. Help me to walk in freedom and peace today. I trust that You are with me every step of the way.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.