Some mistakes don’t really leave much of an impression, and some mistakes do. The consequences of poor choices not only impact us spiritually, but they can impact us physically, financially, emotionally, and mentally. Then of course, they can negatively impact those we love.

LEARN TO LET GO AND HEAL WITH LOVE

We always have twenty-twenty vision looking back; however, in reality, we never fully remember all the facts. We cannot change the past; however, we can heal the hurt through genuine love of self and others. However, first it must begin with unconditional love of Jesus Christ.

NEVER FORGET THAT YOU ARE HUMAN

Many people think or feel they are not supposed to make mistakes; yet, that would make us perfect. Accepting this simple yet profound reality goes a long way to healing the hurt and getting over the guilt, anger, or shame of past mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes. Granted, sometimes we make mistakes because of true ignorance, but often it is because we are using a malfunctioning GPS. Greed, pride, and selfish can often be found as the culprits when we make mistakes. That malfunctioning GPS often encourages us to act impulsively without first weighing all the facts. A lack of patience and a desire for control or instant gratification, also goes hand-in-hand with the malfunctioning GPS.

BEING HUMBLE HELPS THE HEALING PROCESS

Be humble! It may grate on your nerves, but when we are humble, we actually save ourselves a lot of grief and pain. Admit and accept that you don’t know everything. Admit and accept that you made a mistake. Try to learn from the mistake. Always seek God in prayer and in the Word. God will always give you the answer in his timing. God may involve other people to help in your healing process; therefore, seek advice from others who have proven to be knowledgeable and wise. Put your ego on pause and be open hearted and minded. Take time to process all advice and have the correct MAP [mindset, attitude, and practices].

BE PATIENT AND AVOID UNNECESSARY DISCOMFORT

Time is not running out despite what you may think. What God has for you, no one can take away. Being patient allows you to gain more knowledge and gather more information. This helps you to make more accurate decisions, which will ultimately benefit you and your loved ones. Nothing worthwhile requires an immediate response, it you have to make a decision under pressure, you should walk away and think about why you are being pressured.

FORGIVENESS OF SELF IS A MUST FOR YOUR HEALING

If you cannot forgive yourself, you will punish yourself in some remarkably interesting ways. Some of the many ways people punish themselves for mistakes made:

1. You get involved in unhealthy and abusive relationships
2. You abuse yourself with food, drugs, sex, alcohol, or demeaning jobs
3. You try to make up by being a chronic people pleaser
4. You go to extremes in many things: work, gym, gambling, watching tv
5. You neglect yourself or you do not take proper care of self

If any of this sounds familiar, please seek guidance from a respected source: your pastor, an elder, a therapist, a life coach, or spiritual leader. Nothing you have done will stop God from loving you. Seek Him first. Take all your cares, concerns, and worries to Him. He will receive you with love and he will comfort, protect, and guide you forward. Interestingly, God has simply been waiting for you to seek Him.