Redeeming the Past: How Embracing Your Inner Child Unlocks Abundance and Joy

Introduction

Reflecting on the past can feel overwhelming, especially when that past is marked by trauma. Yet, as believers, we know that God redeems all things, even our deepest hurts. In Philippians 3:13-14, Paul encourages us to forget what is behind and press forward. However, this "forgetting" doesn’t mean ignoring our past but rather releasing its power over us while embracing the lessons it has to offer. By lovingly reconnecting with our inner child and recognizing how God can use even the most painful experiences for our good, we can create a life of joy, abundance, and purpose.

The Power of Looking Back

Looking back is not about living in the past; it’s about understanding it. Psalm 77:11 says, "I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old." Remembering helps us trace God’s hand in our lives, even in seasons of pain. Reflecting on your past can:

1. Uncover Root Issues Many struggles we face today stem from unresolved issues in childhood. By looking back with intention, we can identify patterns, lies, or beliefs that have hindered us from walking in freedom.

2. Recognize God’s Sustaining in your darkest moments, God was present. Reflecting allows you to see how His grace carried you, even when you couldn’t see it at the time.

3. Embrace Growth Each trial has the potential to teach us valuable lessons. When we look back with the right perspective, we see how God has used adversity to shape us into stronger, wiser individuals.

Loving Your Inner Child

Trauma often disconnects us from our inner child—the part of us that represents innocence, creativity, and vulnerability. Loving this part of yourself is essential to healing and living a life of abundance.

1. Recognize Your Inner Child's Wounds

Many traumas stem from unmet needs in childhood. Perhaps you lacked safety, affirmation, or unconditional love. Acknowledging these wounds doesn’t mean staying stuck in victimhood; it means offering compassion to the little one within you who didn’t have the tools to cope.

2. Speak Life to Your Inner Child

Proverbs 18:21 reminds us that "the tongue has the power of life and death." Speak affirming words to your inner child:

• "You are loved."

• "You didn’t deserve what happened to you."

• "You are safe now."

3. Invite God Into the Process

Healing your inner child is not something you do alone. Invite Jesus into your memories. Picture Him standing beside you in those painful moments, offering comfort and protection. He says in Matthew 11:28, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Inner healing prayer is a tool that is effective to connect with God to uncover the impact of our past to learn from the experiences to live a life of abundance.

4. Celebrate the Innocence That Remains

Trauma may try to rob us of joy and innocence, but it can never extinguish the light God placed within us. Reconnect with the things that bring you childlike joy—singing, dancing, painting, or simply marveling at God’s creation.

Recognizing Learning Opportunities

Every experience, even the painful ones, offers an opportunity to grow. Romans 8:28 reminds us that "in all things God works for the good of those who love him." By shifting your perspective, you can find meaning in your struggles and use them as stepping stones to a brighter future.

1. Shift From "Why Me?" to "What Can I Learn?"

Instead of dwelling on the unfairness of your pain, ask, "What is God teaching me through this?" Trials often teach us resilience, empathy, and dependence on God. He brings beauty for ashes. He turns our mess into a message.

2. Forgiveness as a Learning Opportunity

Forgiveness is not about excusing someone’s behavior but about freeing yourself from the chains of bitterness. When we forgive, we align ourselves with God’s heart, opening the door for healing and growth.

3. Develop New Skills and Perspectives

Trauma often forces us to adapt. While these adaptations may initially stem from survival, they can later become tools for thriving. For example, someone who grew up in chaos might learn to create peace and order in their adult life.

4. See Pain as a Catalyst for Purpose

Many people find their greatest purpose in their greatest pain. Reflect on how your experiences might equip you to help others or to fulfill a unique calling. Early in my healing process I asked the God to use my pain to help others. My trials and tests have become my testimony. What about you? God wants to do the same for you.

Living a Life of Abundance and Joy

Abundance is not about material wealth; it’s about thriving in every area of life—spiritually, emotionally, relationally, and physically. Joy, too, is not dependent on circumstances but on the unshakable truth of God’s love.

1. Root Your Identity in Christ

Trauma often distorts our sense of self. Rediscovering your God-given identity is key to living abundantly. Remember, you are not defined by what happened to you but by who God says you are: chosen, loved, and redeemed (1 Peter 2:9).

2. Cultivate Gratitude

Gratitude shifts your focus from lack to abundance. Start each day by listing three things you’re thankful for, no matter how small. Gratitude trains your mind to see the good in every situation.

3. Build Healthy Relationships

Healing and abundance often happen in the context of community. Surround yourself with people who encourage, uplift, and challenge you to grow.

4. Pursue Your God-Given Purpose

Abundance flows when you align your life with God’s purpose for you. What passions has He placed in your heart? What dreams have you buried because of fear or doubt? Trust that He will equip you for the work He calls you to.

5. Practice Joyful Living

Joy is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Nurture it through spiritual disciplines like prayer, worship, and studying God’s Word. Joy also grows when we serve others, as Jesus taught, "It is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35).

Homework: A Path to Abundance and Joy

1. Write a Letter to Your Inner Child Express love, compassion, and understanding to the younger you. Acknowledge their pain and reassure them of God’s faithfulness.

2. Reflect on a Painful Experience Journal about a specific trial. Ask God to show you what He was teaching you through it and how He was present during that time.

3. Create a Vision Board Use images, words, and Bible verses to represent the abundant life you desire. Include reminders of God’s promises and the dreams He’s placed in your heart.

4. Pray for a New Perspective Ask God to renew your mind and help you see your past through His lens of redemption and love. In January, we will be unpacking truth by studying the book “Battlefield of the Mind” by Joyce Meyer. I encourage you to reach out to register for the next session of the Beauty for Ashes support group.

5. Engage in Childlike Joy Dedicate one day this week to an activity that brings out your inner child—whether it’s finger painting, dancing in the rain, or simply laughing with a friend.

Conclusion

Your past does not define you, but it can refine you. By looking back with courage, loving your inner child, and recognizing the lessons in your journey, you can step into a future filled with abundance and joy. God promises in Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you...plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Trust Him as you embark on this transformative journey. Your best days are ahead.