In Philippians 3:13, the apostle Paul says one thing he really made an effort in doing was “forgetting what lies behind” – letting go of what already has passed. I believe Paul tried fixing earlier mistakes and discovered how complicated and impossible it was to try and do that. There is only one thing we can do with the past – give it to God! When we let Him take our messes and turn them into miracle, God has the ability to use our mistakes for our great good if we trust Him to do so.

For years, I wanted my ministry to grow. When it didn’t, I became frustrated and dissatisfied. I fasted, prayed, and tried everything I knew to get more people to come to my meetings. I remember complaining when God wouldn’t give me the increase I wanted. Then I would leave the meeting questioning, What am I doing wrong, God? Why aren’t You blessing me? I’m fasting. I’m praying. I’m giving and believing. I was so frustrated. I even asked, “God! Why are You doing this to me?” He said, “Joyce, I am teaching you that man does not live by bread alone.”