I truly believe that everyone has a past. That doesn't have to mean you have deep dark secrets in your closet, but even the smallest mistakes you aren't proud of are enough to make you thankful for a new beginning. Sometimes, I think we as individuals have to go through trials to remember the truth and who we were made to be.

I know for me personally, putting the past behind me has NEVER been easy because I constantly fight with myself and Satan about who I used to be and who I am today. I always tell myself that no matter where I have been, the Lord fought for me and sought me out of my darkness and brought me into the light. Maybe for you, it isn't that you needed to be rescued, but you needed to surrender to the deep truth that you were even lost in the first place. Trust me, I know it isn't easy to look at yourself in the mirror and not recognize the person looking back at you. I have been there, and as scary as that moment is, there is a light at the end of the dark tunnel you feel encompassed by.

When I was younger, I was involved with Vacation Bible School at my home church, and they taught us a simple but powerful phrase that has stuck with me even now as a 20 year old. It is called the ABC's of Salvation, and it is such an eye opener.

A- ADMIT you are a sinner in need of forgiveness.

B- BELIEVE that Jesus Christ died for your sins.

C-CONFESS Jesus as Lord of your life.

You may be thinking, I'm so far gone there is no hope my life, but that isn't true. The Bible says in Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you" , declares the Lord. "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you a hope and a future." Rest solely in the fact that you are loved and being sought after, even on your darkest days when you feel there is no hope for your future. Every end has a new beginning. <3