Philippians 3:13
Brothers and sisters, I do not consider that I have made it my own yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead.
Have you ever found yourself lingering in the regretful abyss of “what ifs” and “if onlys”? I recently stumbled upon this familiar trap when reflecting on an opportunity I once passed up. In hindsight, my current circumstances complicate pursuing it now, leading to a cascade of thoughts lamenting, “If only I had seized that chance years ago…”
Yet, amidst this internal turmoil, a voice gently interrupted my remorse, urging me to cease dwelling on the past and instead embrace the present. “Get moving,” it whispered, “and relish where you are now, for delaying further will only deepen your regret. Seize the moment!”
I reckon many of us grapple with such musings, pondering the myriad ways our lives could have unfolded differently. Maybe it’s contemplating a different educational path, a career pivot, or a pivotal decision left unmade. We’re haunted by the specter of unlived lives, wondering if alternate choices might have led to greener pastures.
But let’s pause and ponder: Can we truly live backward? Certainly not. Life’s journey can only be understood in retrospect, yet it must be traversed forward. Dredging up the past breeds resentment, self-doubt, and a gradual erosion of joy. It’s akin to watering a withered plant while neglecting the seedlings of opportunity sprouting before us.
Consider Lot’s wife, who cast a longing gaze back at Sodom, only to be ensnared as a pillar of salt. Similarly, our fixation on what could have been, shackles us in stagnant regret, hindering our progress toward the new avenues God has prepared.
Moreover, dwelling in the past fosters bitterness, sapping our hope and joy and corroding our self-esteem. We risk becoming mired in a cycle of resentment toward others and even God, lamenting unmet expectations and perceived injustices.
Instead of dwelling in regret, let’s pivot our gaze forward, mirroring the resolve of Paul in Philippians 3:13–14. Let’s fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, and take tangible steps today toward the future we envision. It’s about shifting our perspective—recognizing that amidst unrealized dreams, blessings abound in the lives we currently inhabit.
Romans 8:28 assures us that all things work together for good for those who love God, affirming that His plans far surpass our limited understanding. So, let’s anchor ourselves in His promises, trusting in His unfailing guidance and provision.
In the midst of life’s uncertainties, remember that God is our constant companion, our refuge, and our strength. Our best days are not behind us but lie ahead, waiting to unfold under His intentional care.
So, let’s lift our eyes from the shadows of yesterday and fix them on the radiant promise of today. Let’s embrace the journey with hope and expectancy, knowing that God is orchestrating something beautiful in our lives.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we acknowledge Your faithfulness, both in moments of triumph and in seasons of uncertainty. Grant us the grace to trust in Your plans, knowing that they are designed for our prosperity and well-being. Strengthen us to seize the opportunities before us today as we eagerly anticipate the future You have ordained for us. In Jesus’s name, Amen
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