Don't Press the Playback Button: Keep Moving Forward

If you’re like me sometimes, you may struggle with reoccurring thoughts about the past, what somebody said, what someone did, and what you could have done differently. This repetitive cycle of negative mental regurgitation can rob you of your peace, joy, and productivity.

We all can become hostage to the past, thinking that it will get us somewhere by thinking about situations, or people who are not necessarily thinking about us in a good or bad way.

This constant battle is like a giant who can present itself whether invited or not in the morning, accompanying us throughout our day, and during the night if we don’t seek to conquer it.

The ability to conquer the giant cannot be accomplished on your own. You have to make a concerted effort to combat those mental attacks by applying practical measures.

Ephesians 6:12 says “We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

So, you might ask, well, since these forces are fighting against us, what can I do to ward off the attack?

Ephesians 6:13 gives instructions on how to do this; “Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, stand.

Verses 14-19 continues to provide guidance on how we can protect ourselves spiritually and mentally.

Additional Daily Application

• Pray for mental healing – Psalm 107:20 says “He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.

• Read scriptures that focus on renewing your mind. Romans 12:2 says “And be not conformed to this world: but ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

• Try not to speak about past negative situations every day. This is not to suggest that you should not address issues that need to be confronted in order for you to protect yourself from abuse, or for you to make positive changes in your life.

You can also repeat Psalm 141:3 which says, “Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.” to help you become more conscious about speaking right and exercising control over your speech.

• Change your environment and relationships in order to sustain your mental or emotional healing. This means guarding yourself from others who want to press the playback button when you don’t.

Sometimes when others see that you are at peace, happy, and are making progress in your life, they will try to bring up your past so that you won’t feel good about yourself.

Stay Focused

The more you seek out remedies based on the Word of God, the stronger and more equipped you will be in fulfilling the call God has on your life. Try your best not to allow negative thoughts and the negative words of others to distract you.