Stuck in the Past

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.” Isaiah 43:18 (NIV)

Bruce Springsteen’s song Glory Days tells the story of people reminiscing about their past—whether it’s an old baseball star or someone recalling youthful moments. The song captures the bittersweet reality of nostalgia: while memories can be joyful, they can also keep us stuck, longing for what once was instead of embracing what is ahead.

It’s natural to cherish the past, but sometimes nostalgia holds us captive. The joy of past victories can make us hesitant to move forward, fearing that nothing will ever be as good again. On the other hand, the weight of past mistakes can bind us in regret, making it difficult to embrace the new things God is doing. Whether through fondness or sorrow, dwelling on the past can prevent us from stepping into the future God has prepared.

Isaiah 43 was written during Israel’s exile in Babylon—a time of deep suffering and uncertainty. The Israelites had lost their homeland, their temple was destroyed, and they were living under foreign rule. In this context, God speaks through Isaiah, urging them not to dwell on the past but to look ahead to His promise of restoration.

God doesn’t ask His people to ignore their history but calls them to release it—to trust that He is still working and preparing something greater. The same is true for us. Honoring where we’ve been is important, but allowing the past to define us limits God’s ability to transform our future.

Isaiah 43:19 (NIV) declares, “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” This verse is a powerful reminder that God’s plans often exceed what we can imagine. For Israel, this meant restoration beyond their exile—something they could hardly fathom in their suffering. But to embrace this promise, they had to let go of the past and trust in God’s unfolding work.

Similarly, when we face moments of uncertainty, God is still working. Even when it feels like we’re wandering in a wilderness or standing before a wasteland of broken dreams, God is creating new pathways and bringing life to what seems barren. Letting go of the past is not always easy—it’s a process—but God walks with us as we step forward in faith.

God’s call to Israel reminds us that His work is never finished. No matter what we’ve been through—whether past victories or failures—He is always working, creating new paths where we see none and bringing restoration where we feel broken. As Wesleyan theology teaches, grace is not only about salvation but also about transformation. Through prevenient grace, God is always inviting us forward, shaping us into something new.

Releasing the past is not about forgetting—it is about trusting that God’s plans are greater. He invites us to walk boldly into His promises, embracing the new things He is doing in our lives.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promise to do new things in our lives. Help us release the past—both our triumphs and our struggles—and trust in your greater plan. Open our eyes to perceive your work, even when it feels uncertain. Strengthen our faith to walk forward with confidence, knowing that you are making a way where there seems to be none. May we rest in your goodness and embrace the hope you offer. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim