A lighthouse is fascinating in general, but add a little eerie twist to its history and it becomes an even more interesting conversation piece especially for those who like mystery and suspense. One quick internet search will reveal hundreds of stories about “haunted” lighthouses. However, in light of Scriptures, they are nothing more than sensational stories inspired by fear and superstition. And although we can dismiss such stories as legends and lore, being haunted can be a real experience resulting from images and reminders of our hurtful and sinful past.
Just like lighthouses, we can be bright guiding towers when we are connected to Christ, but we can also become like dark disenchanting ones when we are haunted by our past. The Bible says that when we turn our lives over to Christ we become new creations and that the old (way of life) is passed away. However, since God is the only One who can completely forget our past transgressions, memories of our bad choices and experiences can, from time to time, come back to rob us of our peace and joy. It is during these times that the enemy of our soul takes advantage and uses our self-condemnation to weaken and grieve us emotionally and spiritually. But remember, neither the Devil nor our undesirable past can actually harm us. When you are reminded of your past remind the enemy of his future! Don’t allow unpleasant or regretful memories to extinguish the light of Christ in you. Keep shining by confessing his written word and by seeking godly counsel. Run towards the cross, not away from it! The redeeming power of Jesus’ blood not only cleanses us from all sin but also removes the webs of guilt, clears the fog of shame and restores the light of hope.
It was King David who, in the midst of being haunted by his past, was led by God’s Spirit to pen some of the most encouraging Psalms. The Bible says that God makes all things work in favor of those who love Him. Yes, even the haunting effects of our past can be used by God to accomplish His purpose in our lives. This reminds me of a powerful quote I once saw on FB. It read, “Only Jesus can turn a MESS into a MESSAGE, a TEST into a TESTIMONY, a TRIAL into a TRIUMPH, a VICTIM into a VICTOR!
Prayer: Blessed Lord, when my past comes to haunt me remind me that it no longer has power over me for I am a new creation in You. I believe that I no longer stand condemned and therefore ask that you deliver me from any haunting thoughts that would seek to destroy my peace. I believe that you can and will use all of my life experiences to help me grow spiritually and to fulfill your perfect plan for my life. I pray this in Jesus’ name, amen.
Lighthouse Devotions 
There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus! Thank God for our past, because we now have a future in Christ and its good! Jeremiah 29:11. Thank you for this devotional, keep doing what you are doing for His glory. Your wife who loves you, Mari.
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I’ve heard it before, but it’s a good reminder to remind Satan if his future.
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Great post Joe. I especially appreciated your ending: “Only Jesus can turn a MESS into a MESSAGE, a TEST into a TESTIMONY, a TRIAL into a TRIUMPH, a VICTIM into a VICTORY!”
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Thanks Kathleen. Yes, Jesus makes ALL the difference.
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My past haunts me constantly and I was talking to God earlier about this and now I read this and it all came together! Out with the old so there’s room for the new!!! Why dwell in the past when God wants you to move toward the everlasting w Him!!! Thank you!!
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Yes, my dear friend. In Christ all things are new. While the past is part of our history it does not define our present nor our future. Those have been re-defined by the mercy and grace of God. Remember, the spiritual battle is mainly in the mind and that is where the enemy will attack you by bringing back memories. That is why Paul says we should renew our minds daily (Rom. 12:2) and we do that with the Word of God, worship music, biblical sound writings and godly fellowship and counsel. So, keep moving forward while echoing Paul’s words to the Philippians, “I forget what is behind me. I push hard toward what is ahead of me.” Philippians 3:13
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Good word! You could preach a “Ghost Hunters” series on the things that haunt us.
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Love the idea! Thanks Randy.
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