Have you ever felt like you cannot break free from the past and live fully? Perhaps you’ve experienced sleepless nights, anxiety, or an unshakable sense of being stuck. If so, you’re not alone. Our recent sermon series, Emotionally Healthy Spirituality, has explored how Jesus calls us to a life of fullness and peace. Yet, to truly experience this, we must allow God to work through every part of us, including our past.
The Powerful Influence of the Past
Let’s start with a real-life story about a young man named Jesse. He was an accomplished student and athlete until sudden, severe insomnia disrupted his life. Traditional therapies failed to help. However, after meeting with Mark Woolen, an expert in inherited family trauma, Jesse uncovered an unexpected connection. He was unconsciously reliving the trauma of an uncle who tragically froze to death at 19. This awareness, coupled with therapeutic exercises, allowed Jesse to heal and finally sleep.
“I lay the sins of the parents upon their children and grandchildren; the entire family is affected—even children in the third and fourth generations.” – Exodus 34:7
This story shows how our past, including family trauma, can profoundly affect our present. The Bible echoes this concept in Exodus 34:7 where God explains how our trauma not only effects us, but spreads to the 3rd and 4th generations. This underscores how deeply past experiences shape us.
Steps to Break Free from the Past
How do we break free from generational patterns and live the life Jesus promises? Here are practical, faith-based steps to help you begin this journey.
- Acknowledge the Impact of Your Family History
- Begin by creating a family tree that spans three or four generations.
- Take time to identify patterns or traumas that might impact you today.
- Talk to family members and ask questions about significant events, relationships, and behaviors.
- Identify Your Core Sentence
- Reflect on any recurring negative thoughts or beliefs that arise in difficult times.
- Examples could be phrases like, “I’ll be abandoned,” “I’m not enough,” or “I’ll always fail.”
- Identifying these thoughts can help you recognize patterns and areas for healing.
- Engage in the Hard Work of Discipleship
- Jesus calls us to take up our cross daily and follow Him (Luke 9:23-25), surrendering old ways to allow Him to transform us.
- Seek professional help if needed, and have open conversations with family members to address unresolved issues.
- Rewrite Your Life Script According to God’s Truth
- Replace harmful thoughts with God’s promises, like, “I am fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14).
- Remember that God is always with you, that He has a purpose for you, and that He has equipped you for the life He’s called you to.
40 Promises of God in Scripture to Cling to Everyday
Moving Forward with Faith
The story of Joseph in the Bible is a powerful reminder that we can overcome past traumas to fulfill God’s purpose. Despite the betrayal, false accusations, and imprisonment he faced, Joseph remained faithful to God. He eventually rose to power and used his position to bless even those who had wronged him. Joseph’s journey reminds us that we can transform our past with God’s help.
You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people. – Genesis 50:20
By acknowledging our history, identifying harmful patterns, and embracing discipleship, we can break free from our past and embrace the abundant life Jesus offers.
Conclusion
Jesus wants you to break free of your past and lead you into a hopeful future. What will you do this week to start this journey? Will you create a family tree, reflect on core beliefs, or seek professional support? Remember, Jesus is with you every step of the way, empowering you to overcome the past and embrace a life of purpose.
Books I Enjoyed on this Topic:
It Didn’t Start with You – Mark Wolynn
Emotionally Healthy Discipleship – Peter Scazzero
Prayer for Emotional and Spiritual Freedom
Heavenly Father, thank You for promising us a full and abundant life. Help us to acknowledge the impact of our past and give us the courage to face and transform our traumas. Let us rewrite our lives according to Your truth. Guide us on this journey, so we may turn our past into a blessing and step into the future You have for us. Break us free from our past. In Jesus’ name, Amen.