Leaving Your Past Behind

Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead,

I press on toward the goal to win the prize

For which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

(Philippians 3:13-14)

I began reading a book titled “Pathway to Purpose for Women” given to me by my mother several months ago. I must admit I haven’t read the book in its entirety but thus far it is excellent reading material. This book simply discusses various challenges faced by women and God’s purpose within each challenge. 

Each day I witness the story of young women facing the very same challenges discussed in this book. God prepares each of us for our own journey, it is in him that we must trust and believe that things will work according to his plan. Unknowingly, God provides us with the essential tools ahead of time to prepare us for the “great” challenge. The greatest task within each challenge is the ability to move past old experiences. With every past experience we all must gain the strength and wisdom to move forward. This is God’s purpose for our lives! It is not God’s desire for our lives to becoming mere dwellings on past experiences. 

"Those who are able to honestly and courageously deal with the past as a learning and shaping tool will take the road that leads to authentic living. That’s a way of life that enables us to honestly accept ourselves for who we are—warts, weaknesses, and all." - Dr. John Trent

 

Shaunna Parker, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, has been with Hope Clinic since January 2012. She provides medical services which include pap smears, STI testing, and limited obstetrical ultrasounds.  Shaunna received an undergraduate degree from Tennessee State University in 2007 and graduate degree from Vanderbilt University in 2011.