I Timothy 1:13-14 NKJV although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man; but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant, with faith and love which are in Christ Jesus.

For some of us, it’s difficult to get over our former selves. We may have had a past that society considers embarrassing, shameful, or unforgivable.

Paul faced the same feelings. He approved the murder of believers and he considered himself to be the chief of sinners (Acts 8:1; 1 Timothy 1:15). But after his conversion, he understood and received the mercy of God and he did something only the Holy Spirit could inspire him to do. He chose to forget the things behind him (Philippians 3:13). On top of that, he transformed himself by renewing his mind to what God thought about him (Romans 12:2).

In order to move on from past failures, we must truly receive God’s mercy and move on. God’s mercy is accepting that we won’t receive punishment that we deserve.

It doesn’t matter if it was 30 years ago or 2 days ago, we must move on. Satan will always use our past to attempt to make us feel guilty, less than, or inadequate. As we throw away thoughts that are contrary to God’s word and receive what God says about us, our past will turn into a testimony.

God has forgiven us, forgotten our sins, and has moved on (Colossians 2:13-14; Hebrews 8:12). We should forgive ourselves, forget our sins, and move on.