There are a few times in life when we find ourselves intensly introspective. Those times often occur when we are in the middle of a transition or season of life. We feel a chapter of our life is closing and, like finishing a book, we think back. How was that story? Did it end as I expected? Am I satisfied having read it?
It’s at those times we can lose ourselves in the evaluation of an imperfect past. I love results. I love looking at the present and seeing how I got here. But looking back is tricky. It can be a place where we count God’s blessing and favor, or we can fall into the trap of “what ifs.” In particular, when our present isn’t ideal. What if I parented differently, didn’t say those words, made a different choice along the way…
Looking back for too long can land you flat on your face.
God wants us fully present in THIS moment. So when looking back keeps you from moving in the grace of today, watch out. Put your past in His hands. He’s already held it all. Give yourself fully to him for today. This is where grace rests. This is where help comes. And this is where the next book begins.
I am grateful that the past is not a fixed indicator of the future. I can look back with regret and realize that God’s got that, and His plan is to give me hope and a future not based on my past performance, but in His great love.
Or, I can look back at the “glory days”, and realize they aren’t over. Romans 8:18 -The sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. The closer I get to Jesus, the bigger he appears, the more amazed I am. Glory is in the here and now, because Christ is here with me.
Good reminder, thank you!
This is a confirmation of exactly what God has been speaking to me over the last three days. You are an exceptionally gifted writer. Thanks for sharing your gift.