That was then. This is now. 🤍✨

There comes a moment where you stop looking back at who you used to be… and you start honoring who God is shaping you into.

You don’t have to carry old versions of yourself into a new season.

You don’t have to keep revisiting what God has already helped you survive.

And you don’t have to shrink your growth just because it feels unfamiliar.

This is your reminder that:

* you are not behind

* you are not stuck

* you are not who you used to be

You are being renewed, strengthened, and led into something new.

Let peace be your confirmation.

Let grace be your covering.

And let “now” be the place you finally choose to live in. 🤍

6/23 Edited to

... Read moreFrom personal experience, I can truly relate to the journey of moving beyond past hardships and embracing the new seasons of life. It’s not always easy to stop revisiting old wounds or the versions of ourselves we once were, but when we choose to surrender these burdens, a profound transformation begins. Letting go of past pain, fear, and shame can feel unfamiliar and even uncomfortable, but it is essential for growth and healing. One thing I’ve learned is that peace often serves as a powerful confirmation that you are on the right path. When you feel an inner calm despite challenges, it’s a sign that you’re aligned with a higher purpose. Grace, too, acts as a protective covering—reminding us to be gentle with ourselves during change instead of shrinking away from progress. In this process, it helps to draw a clear line between what was and what is. Burying old mindsets and limitations allows you to step freely into what God is calling you toward. You aren’t stuck or behind; you are being renewed and strengthened every day. The shift from carrying old versions of yourself to honoring your new identity is indeed a spiritual and emotional practice. I encourage anyone feeling bound by their past to practice self-compassion and remind themselves that growth is allowed and welcomed. Choose to live in the “now” with faith, peace, and grace as your guides. This mindset cultivates resilience and opens the door for abundant blessings in whatever season you find yourself in.

Related posts

That was then, This is Now ✨
Love yourself, no matter what. #embracevulnerability #bodypositivity #unaesthetic #lemon8challenge #bodycare #shareyourthoughts #livephoto #grwm #LoveYourself #bodyshape
Tiffi J

Tiffi J

1 like

Books I ignored in college & regret now
Remember those dusty books on my college bookshelf? The ones I swore I'd read “someday”? Yeah, well, “someday” is here, and I'm kicking myself for not cracking them open sooner. Turns out, those pages held insights I desperately needed back then - about history, the human spirit, dreams,
Meredith Jao

Meredith Jao

11.4K likes

A comparison of a handwriting tattoo on skin, showing its appearance when fresh (top) and six years later (bottom). The top image shows clear, crisp lettering, while the bottom image displays significant ink spread and blurring of the text 'No matter how far away My Love Always Dad'.
Tattoo then vs now. What went wrong?
In 2018 I got this tattoo after my dad passed, his handwriting. When I got the tattoo, it looked exactly like his handwriting. Within the next few days it almost looked like the ink had spread some. The bottom picture is today 6 years later. I think I need to have it covered and to get the tattoo a
Danielle Nicole

Danielle Nicole

235 likes

12 years then & now ❤️
12 years together but we’re also middle school sweethearts🥰 #nowandthen #beforeandafter #lovers #inlove #bestfriend
Erin Gunn

Erin Gunn

3888 likes

A flat lay of four fragrance products: EOS Vanilla Cashmere lotion, Ariana Grande Cloud perfume, Sol de Janeiro '62 mist, and Mix:Bar Vanilla Bourbon mist, with text indicating they elicit compliments.
A bottle of EOS Shea Better 24H Moisture Body Lotion in Vanilla Cashmere, described as smelling like vanilla, soft musk, and marshmallow, and being moisturizing, a dry skin favorite, and affordable.
A bottle of Ariana Grande Cloud Perfume, described as smelling like vanilla, sweet floral, feminine, and coconut, and being long-lasting, cute, and strong.
products that will give you compliments! 🍦✨
hi!!! i never post about fragrances ever so i thought i would make a post on my favorite ones <33 i am a broke girlie so you will NEVER catch me spending $50+ on a perfume EVERRR (even $50 sounds too much for me) i do love to smell good, just on a budget. ppl that spend $100 on a perfume just
malaina 💫🫧🌷

malaina 💫🫧🌷

20.2K likes

A close-up shows a hand holding a tiny, single braid on a baby's head, representing the "First Braid." The baby wears a blue shirt and lies on a patterned blanket.
First Braid vs. Now
Definitely trust the process😅. That first braid was just for giggles, he was about 5mo old and I didn’t start actually doing his hair until he turned 1. #thenvsnow #toddlerhairstyles #toddlerboy #boymom #hairgrowth #braids #blacktoddlerhairstyles #doingmyownbraids #Lemon8 #mo
Danielle Turner

Danielle Turner

1320 likes

A spiral-bound notebook page displays handwritten notes titled 'WHEN GOD SAYS NO!'. The notes explain that God's 'no' is for our best interest, protects us, and guides us, encouraging acceptance and full reliance on Him, with scripture references.
When GOD says NO‼️Then what? 🤷🏾‍♀️
You know, sometimes life throws us curveballs, and it feels like our prayers or plans just hit a wall. It’s easy to get frustrated or disheartened when God says no, but often there’s a bigger picture we can't see. Maybe that job we didn’t get or the relationship that didn’t work out was actuall
Lindsey Marie

Lindsey Marie

3725 likes

Two designer bags, a black quilted camera bag and a light-colored quilted crossbody, displayed on white shelves. The image features the title 'Designer Bags that won't break the bank'.
A black Kira Chevron Camera Bag with a gold logo and a black leather and gold chain strap, resting on a white textured surface.
A hand opening the black Kira Chevron Camera Bag, revealing its interior and the gold zipper closure.
Designer Bags that won’t break the bank
When it comes to handbags I look for something classic and good quality. That’s why I love designer handbags, but I don’t want to break the banks just so I can own a YSL bag. This is why I love the Tory Burch Outlet and the Coach Outlet for classic looks at a fraction of the price. 1. The Kira
lydiainthelou

lydiainthelou

2500 likes

A hand with pink manicured nails holds a thick stack of US dollar bills. Overlay text reads "11 Financial Habits You Need To Master" with a prompt to "read below" and the user handle "@lifewithiri".
11 Financial Habits To Master NOW ⬇️💰
1. Track your money First things first: track your money. This means knowing exactly how much money you’re bringing in, and how much money you’re spending. And I’m talking about getting real nitty gritty here. Get into the habit of tracking literally every dollar you make and spend. How much money
irianna

irianna

13.9K likes

Yesterday was Wash Day…🍋🤍
So let me tell you about these new products! As a natural girlie yk your hair texture and reactions to products changed as much as the seasons lol how many of you had “go to products” that for whatever reason just did not agree with your hair anymore?! 🙋🏾‍♀️lol so every now and then I like to tr
Deja Emani

Deja Emani

71 likes

How I dressed before Vs now! 🧡
Even if it wasn’t the BIGGEST change in the world, there was still a significant difference- my confidence in myself! Sometimes getting away from a toxic relationship or mindset can be the big things that changes how you live, act, think or even dress! For me, moving out at 19 gave me confidence an
machamin

machamin

1018 likes

That time I was diagnosed with breast cancer
Two years ago I was diagnosed with breast cancer. This October marks year two of my cancer free diagnosis. Life is weird. It makes you show up when you don’t want to, and pushes you to limits you never thought you would reach. Or that you wanted to reach, for that matter. Sometimes good
Katie Helm

Katie Helm

80 likes

DONT WAIT TRY THEM NOW !
So, rumor has it that dill pickle-flavored Flamin’ Hot Cheetos are dropping in February… but who really knows?! 🤷🏽‍♀️ I couldn’t wait, so I hit up Walmart 🛒 and grabbed some Orville Dill Pickle Popcorn Seasoning and a bag of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. Let me tell you this combo is EVERYTHING!!!!!!!! 😍 I
Zamia

Zamia

1382 likes

Two women take a mirror selfie. One in a tie-dye hoodie smiles while the other, in a grey hoodie, holds the phone. The image is labeled 'Then' with '2019-2020' in the corner.
Two women are reflected in an ornate mirror, appearing to share an intimate moment. One holds a phone, capturing their reflection in a dimly lit setting.
Two women take a mirror selfie. One in a plaid shirt holds the phone, while the other, wearing a blue cap, stands closely behind her.
Our then and now glow up 🌈
Almost 5 years with my person and life is amazing 🩷 #lgbtq🌈 #LoveDump #imjustagirl #mylove
Ashly B

Ashly B

349 likes

An image featuring the bold text "20 hooks guaranteed to stop the scroll" in black with a pink outline. The text is overlaid on a background showing a window with a sunset sky and a bed with pink and white bedding, including a fluffy pink blanket. Small sparkles are scattered across the image, and a Lemon8 logo with a username is in the bottom left.
20 HOOKS TO USE IN YOUR CONTENT RIGHT NOW🌸
if you're struggling with engagement and getting views on your videos and knowing what to say to get eyes on your content i got you! 💕This may be controversial but_ 💕 _type of people. stop scrolling! 💕 Everything you knew about is 100% WRONG! (+ a good example) 💕 I just found the perfect
Createdbylexie

Createdbylexie

191 likes

These mini expansion packs are free right now!!
If you’re a cozy gamer, I bet you play the Sims 4. And if you don’t, well, why not? Ever since they made the game free to play (except for the DLC and expansion content packs) there is no reason not to try it out! It’s available on Epic Games and Steam, so that’s where I found these free packs.
astarael.games

astarael.games

1727 likes

A woman with her hair in a bun and large hoop earrings looks away thoughtfully. Overlay text reads: "I WAS IN A 7 YEAR LGBTQ RELATIONSHIP and now im only dating men...." from a Lemon8 diary post.
The woman looks at the camera, with text about healing trauma and re-exploring dating men. Another text box discusses validating identity for those in hetero relationships despite being gay, bi, or pan.
The woman looks at the camera, with text stating, "I'm so proud of myself for following what I want and feel called to at this phase of my life." Rainbow heart emojis are also present.
LEMON8 DIARY: I Was In A 7 YEAR LGBTQ Relationship
My longest relationship to date: My nearly 7 year relationship that was an LGBTQ relationship (to keep it simple) BUT NOW, I'm only dating men. Here's why... I am coming from multiple physically and emotionally abusive relationships with men growing up. I went straight into a relationshi
stephanietear

stephanietear

370 likes

A laptop displaying a Korean movie title and white headphones rest on a striped blanket. Overlay text reads 'THE 16 BEST MOVIES on Hulu Right Now,' with a Lemon8 logo and username at the bottom.
Four movie posters are displayed: 'The Creator' featuring John David Washington, 'Theater Camp' with its ensemble cast, 'No One Will Save You' showing a house under alien light, and 'How to Blow Up a Pipeline' with a smoky title.
Four movie posters are shown: 'Infinity Pool' with Mia Goth and Alexander Skarsgård, 'Rye Lane' featuring David Jonsson and Vivian Oparah, 'Triangle of Sadness' depicting a luxury cruise ship, and 'Bruiser' with a dog tag.
The 16 Best Movies on Hulu Right Now 🎥
1.The Creator (2023) For fans of: Isaac Asimov, the singularity John David Washington, The Creator Year: 2023 Director: Gareth Edwards Stars: John David Washington, Gemma Chan, Allison Janney, Madeleine Yuna Voyles Genre: Sci-Fi, Action, Drama Rating: PG-13 Metacritic score: 63 Rogue One d
Rachelle Smith

Rachelle Smith

114 likes

Then
Weight loss transformation just two years ago. I was at my heaviest weight never been that big 210 pounds at 5 ft 5 the weight went all to my belly #tummytuck #bbl #bodygoalss #weightlosstransformation
JEN BROWN 💍

JEN BROWN 💍

274 likes

A close-up of halved grape tomatoes, whole garlic cloves, and herbs in a clear dish, seasoned and ready for baking. The image has a text overlay about the dish's name.
A clear baking dish filled with halved grape tomatoes, chopped shallots, garlic cloves, and two rounds of Boursin cheese, all drizzled with olive oil, before baking.
A clear baking dish after cooking, showing roasted grape tomatoes, softened shallots and garlic, and two melted, lightly browned rounds of Boursin cheese.
I now call this trending dish: dick me down pasta!
I saw this viral dish online and had to make it for dinner. My boyfriend ate it, digested, and then promptly dicked me down. Recipe: - One container of grape tomatoes - One clove of garlic - one shallot - fresh rosemary minced - olive oil - 2 packages of Boursin cheese - one containe
Jojo

Jojo

3520 likes

A playful graphic with text 'AT HOME BLEACHING KIT' on a background of a large pear, small peaches, a cartoon heart, and hands pulling down pants, surrounded by stars.
Three bottles of witch hazel toner and astringent are displayed, with labels indicating natural ingredients and alcohol-free options for facial and body use.
Various packages of baby wipes are shown, emphasizing 'pure water' and 'plastic free' features, designed for delicate skin and cleansing.
AT HOME🍑🍑(BootyHole) 🍑🍑 BLEACHING KIT! Save Now!
Ok so this isn't anything new, but I've tried it and let me tell you.. it works. Are you someone who enjoys your uhhh..getting your "salad tossed" 🥗🥗 Or do you just want to lighten your 🍑🕳️…then try this! I do this every morning after my shower..and no matter how well you wash y
Phleeeshaa

Phleeeshaa

3462 likes

A person lies on a bed, focused on a laptop. Overlay text reads 'A MANTRA TO HELP GET THINGS DONE: donowor.. regretlater', promoting productivity.
A person in a cap looks down intently. Overlay text states 'thereare somany times where you won't feel like doing the things that you need to get done'.
A person in a cap and hoodie takes a mirror selfie. Overlay text explains 'andawayto overcome that, is using this mantra as a way to not talk yourself out of doing those things'.
do now.. or regret later✍🏽
when i don't want to do something, i avoid it for as long as possible all to eventually get overwhelmed and STILL have to do it and then be irritated at the fact that i waited too long. see how that sounded like a lot? because it was or is. lol. now, i’m not a productivity ‘junky’ but i d
R Y E S I A

R Y E S I A

39 likes

A young Brandon Hammond, known for his role in 'Soul Food,' smiles in a 'Then vs Now' graphic. The image features the text 'SOUL FOOD MOVIE' and 'Then vs Now SWIPE,' indicating a comparison of his past and present.
Then vs Now
Throwback Spotlight: Brandon La Ron Hammond – 90s Child Star ✨🎬 If you grew up watching 90s Black cinema, you definitely remember Brandon La Ron Hammond! Born February 6, 1984, Brandon was one of the most talented child actors of his time, bringing heart and soul to every role he played. 🎥 Yo
Mocha Monroe

Mocha Monroe

2449 likes

I wish I was high school fat now…🫶
St. Louis I’ve noticed every Millennial has a story about a Boomer relative suffocating them with their own insecurities. My sister and I joke about certain comments that were made when we were at our smallest weight as teenagers. Its also been mentioned by a friend or two of mine. You know that
Kayla Renee

Kayla Renee

18 likes

See more