Today, I came across an article I wrote in 2019, and it reignited a spark within me. About two years ago, my website went down, which meant that all the work I had done there over the years was lost. I had built the website myself, carefully crafting every piece, post, page, and color. When it disappeared, I felt really sad and angry; part of the blame was on me for not renewing my hosting on time. After losing everything, I struggled to bring myself to start again. However, on December 7, 2024, after reading one of my old posts, I knew what I needed to do. I decided to forgive myself for that mistake of two year ago and begin anew. Today, I purchased a new web hosting plan and I am excited to start fresh. I look forward to writing amazing and inspiring articles and stories. This is the post that brought back the light in me.

A couple of days ago, I was driving my kids home from swimming lessons, using a route I wasn’t particularly familiar with, which is why I had my satnav to guide me. Just as we left the center, the satnav prompted me to take a turn, but I missed it. I could have easily turned around and followed the correct route, but I allowed my frustration to take over, worrying about how this longer journey would make me late for my next appointment. I was furious with myself for making such a simple mistake. In the midst of my anger, I felt a voice within me saying, “Forgive your mistake.” I recognized that it could only be the Lord speaking to me. Instead of turning back to the route I was supposed to have taken, I continued on the longer route and remained angry the entire time. Hours later, I realized how I was punishing myself by not forgiving my mistake and moving on.

Many times, we find ourselves in situations we could have avoided—business ventures we should not have pursued, or relationships where we ignored the warning signs. In my case, missing a turn was a minor error compared to the larger mistakes many of us make in life. But today, the Lord is reminding you to forgive your mistakes.

Forgive the bad decisions you’ve made; forgive the paths you should never have taken despite the warnings; forgive the hurtful words you should never have said. Whatever it is you have done that you consider a mistake, it’s important to forgive yourself. The Lord says, “Cast all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7). If you are in Christ, you are a new creation; the old has passed away, and the new has come (2 Corinthians 5:17). Do not dwell on the past or on specific mistakes; all of your errors and your old life have been forgiven and wiped clean. So why do you still hold onto them? I understand that you may still see the consequences of your mistakes, and those results may seem overwhelming. However, it’s time to shift your focus away from them and trust completely in the Lord. Remember, the Lord does not treat us according to our sins or repay us for our iniquities. As high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His steadfast love towards those who fear Him (Psalm 103:10-11). His love for you is immense. Apostle Paul in the book of Romans reminds us that there is, therefore, now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Stop condemning yourself. Enough of the torment you have subjected yourself to. One thing you must do is forget what is behind and reach forward to what lies ahead (Philippians 3:13). Even David acknowledged his mistakes to the Lord, and he was forgiven (Psalm 32:5). Today, choose to forgive your mistakes. Decide to let go completely and surrender all to the Lord. You are profoundly loved. Why not accept that love?

As simple as this message may seem, this could be exactly what someone needs to hear today, especially as you prepare for the new year: “Forgive your mistakes.” Don’t allow the mistakes of this year to hold you back. God has many wonderful plans for you, but you need to accept His mercy and allow Him to work great things in your life.

Merry Christmas, everyone!