Those of us who are parents know these words so well: “In a minute. Just a little longer.” Today, in our Daily Devotional for June 3, let’s reflect on how to leave the past behind and move forward with God.
Daily Devotional for June 3
“You have dwelt long enough at this mountain. Turn and take your journey.” – Deuteronomy 1:6-7 (NIV)
Leave the Past Behind
As children, we often begged for just a little more time to play, delaying the inevitable call to come inside. As adults, we sometimes echo this sentiment, clinging to the familiar even when it’s time to move on.
I’ve met many who were unhappy with their lives, jobs, or relationships but did nothing to change their circumstances, insisting on “just a little longer.” This reluctance to move forward can keep us stuck in a state of dissatisfaction and misery.
This mindset is what I call the wilderness mentality. When Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, their journey to the Promised Land should have taken 11 days, but it took 40 years because they grumbled and resisted God’s direction.
They were free from physical bondage, but their minds remained captive to fear and negativity. They had forgotten the hardships of Egypt and lacked the vision to see the blessings ahead.
Breaking Free from the Wilderness Mentality
The Israelites’ story teaches us the danger of dwelling on the past and refusing to embrace the future God has prepared for us. God finally said, “You have dwelt long enough on this mountain,” urging them to move into the Promised Land.
Like the Israelites, we may feel tempted to stay in our comfort zones, even when they are not truly comfortable.
If you find yourself dissatisfied with life but unwilling to make changes, you might have a wilderness mentality. Negative thoughts and fear of the unknown can keep you in bondage, preventing you from experiencing the fullness of God’s promises.
Embracing God’s Promised Land
To leave the past behind, one must trust in God’s plan and take faith-filled steps toward the future.
Acknowledge that while the past is familiar, it is not where God intends for you to stay. He has a Promised Land of blessings and victory waiting for you. It’s time to move forward and embrace the new opportunities He provides.
God calls us to break free from our negative patterns and step into the life He has designed for us. This requires a shift in mindset—focusing on His promises rather than past disappointments.
By renewing our minds with His Word and grace, we can overcome fear and negativity, allowing us to walk confidently into our future.
Devotional for every day here: Daily Devotional
Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, thank You for calling us to leave the past behind and move forward into the Promised Land You have prepared for us. Help us to break free from the wilderness mentality and trust in Your plans for our lives. Teach us to focus on Your promises and to embrace the new opportunities You provide. May we walk in faith and experience the fullness of Your blessings. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
To You
Reflect on the areas of your life where you may be holding on to the past. How can you trust God to lead you into a brighter future?
My brother, remember that God calls you to leave the past behind and embrace the future He has for you. Take steps of faith and trust in His promises. Amen.
