Every time I look in the mirror, I see the physical scars of my past. I despise my scars, but they are a part of me. They represent my journey. Who would I be if I had not gone through the difficulties? I’m learning to appreciate the fortitude and determination God has shaped in me through the ugly parts of my life.
Many of us feel worn down and used up from our tough trials. But God uses all our ugly to grow us into beautiful souls that glorify Him and help others along the way. We’re not used up, but vessels continually filled with God’s love for Him to pour out again and again.
Everything in our lives up to this point has shaped who we are. We may not be happy about many things, but they have resulted in wisdom and compassion. Additionally, they have likely opened doors for us to help others we wouldn’t have otherwise reached. Walking through our hardships and tragedies with God makes us humble, more determined, and more dependent on Christ. They make us stronger.
Instead of trying to erase our past, we can embrace what made us the able servants we are today. Reflecting on the past can cause pain, but it also enlightens us. Sometimes, we want to shut that door and never look back. Dwelling on the past is not helpful, but asking God to grow us from our experiences is. God gives those who are willing and obedient a peaceful, settled heart. The anxiety that comes from trying to keep things looking perfect on the outside prevents us from serving as God intends.
If you’ve kept some things about your life locked up in a box no one else gets to see, ask God to help you reconcile your past to your present. Ask Him what you can learn from the painful experiences and how He wants to use your past to help others.
Bonnie Malone is a writer.