Your life counts: How a broken past can help shape a future

Amid anxiety and the struggle to connect with God, you might feel unworthy. You may wonder how you could be considered a Christian when your life is entangled in negativity, whether it be in your experiences or thoughts. And who can blame you as these make it seem impossible to find yourself amidst it all? But, hold on – even in your brokenness, there is a place for you in God's Kingdom. 

In the first place, being a Christian does not mean we are without negative thoughts and experiences. 

It is quite the opposite. As followers of Christ, we often find ourselves confronting the harsh realities and imperfections of the world. The Bible itself acknowledges this truth. Philippians 4:7 writes, "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." 

This implies that the promise of peace does not mean the absence of negative thoughts but rather divine protection amidst them.

Also, consider the story of Job, a man known for his unwavering faith in the face of extreme adversity. Job experienced profound loss, physical suffering, and the questioning of his friends. Despite these overwhelming negatives, Job's faith in God remained steadfast. This illustrates that even the most faithful may grapple with negativity. Yet, it does not diminish their place in God's plan.

Moreover, as Christians, we are all sinners. 

This might appear paradoxical. However, this concept underscores why Jesus Christ was sent to earth. 

None of us are inherently worthy. Acknowledging our imperfections is the first step toward salvation. In Romans 3:23, the Bible declares, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." 

This verse emphasizes the universal nature of sin, highlighting that every person falls short regardless of background.

Consider the example of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32. This young man led a reckless life, squandering his inheritance on indulgent living. Yet, when he came to his senses and returned to his father, he was welcomed with open arms. The father's response symbolizes God's grace and forgiveness, illustrating that no matter how far we may have strayed, redemption is always possible through acceptance of salvation.

Moreover, many of us have faced challenging circumstances before embracing salvation. Some may have battled addiction; others might have lived in the shadows of dishonesty. However, the transformative power of accepting Christ is evident in 1 Corinthians 6:11, which states, "And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, sanctified, and justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God." 

This verse emphasizes that by accepting Christ, individuals are cleansed and justified, breaking free from the chains of their past sins.

The only things you need to do are confess, accept, and live a Christ-like life. And even then, it is essential to understand that even in your pursuit of a righteous path, making mistakes is human. 

The beauty lies in God's mercy, which allows you to acknowledge your faults and turn back to Him at any moment. 

No judgment diminishes your worthiness. In 1 John 1:9, the Bible reassures, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." 

This emphasizes God's unwavering commitment to forgiveness upon sincere confession.

God's love is akin to a parent's love. He does not belittle or revoke your freedom, deeming you unworthy. Instead, like a caring parent, He corrects and comforts. Hebrews 12:6 says, "For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child." 

This portrays God's corrective actions as expressions of love rather than condemnation. Your journey is not about perfection. Instead, it is about continuous growth and reliance on His grace.

Yet, you might still harbor doubts, especially questioning whether you can genuinely contribute anything meaningful to God's Kingdom. It is expected to feel inadequate. You might think that your brokenness renders you incapable of shaping a future aligned with His plan. However, it is crucial to recognize that every life, no matter how broken, holds the potential to contribute significantly to God's Kingdom.

Let us delve into the narratives of Rahab, David, and Peter, individuals with broken pasts whom God used to shape a future.

Rahab

Rahab, a woman from Jericho, found herself in a profession society often frowned upon - she was a prostitute. When two Israelite spies entered Jericho, Rahab took a tremendous risk by hiding them and helping them escape. In Joshua 2:9-11, Rahab expressed her faith in the God of Israel, acknowledging His power and authority. As a result of her courage and faith, she and her family were spared when the Israelites conquered Jericho. 

Rahab's story teaches us that even someone with a seemingly irreparable past can become integral to God's plan. Rahab is mentioned in the lineage of Jesus in Matthew 1:5, highlighting God's redemptive power in transforming a broken past into a future filled with purpose.

David

David, a shepherd boy, was anointed king by the prophet Samuel. Despite his initial righteousness, he fell into sin by committing adultery with Bathsheba and arranging for the murder of her husband, Uriah. Yet, when confronted by the prophet Nathan, David repented sincerely. In Acts 13:22, God called David "a man after his own heart." This description does not negate David's mistakes but underscores his deep repentance and continued reliance on God's mercy. 

Despite his broken past, David's legacy includes penning many Psalms and establishing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, demonstrating how God can use imperfect individuals to shape a future aligned with His divine plan.

Peter

Peter, one of Jesus' disciples, displayed both passion and impulsiveness. Despite his initial commitment to Jesus, he denied knowing Him three times during Jesus' trial. However, after Jesus' resurrection, Peter experienced redemption and forgiveness. In Matthew 16:18, Jesus declared, "And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church." 

Peter became a foundational figure in the early Christian church, preaching boldly on Pentecost and playing a key role in spreading the Gospel. Peter's story illustrates that God's transformative power can turn a broken past into a future marked by significant contributions to His Kingdom.

That said, despite negativity and doubt, embrace the truth that your life counts in God's Kingdom, and there is always space for redemption and purpose, no matter how broken you may feel. 

In the simplicity of confessing, accepting, and living a Christ-like life, you find the pathway to a future shaped by God's unfailing love, where your contributions matter in the grand tapestry of His Kingdom.

 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

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