God’s grace and goodness is evident every day, but at times, disappointment, heartbreak, and regrets are a part of the journey of life. The enemy will try to steal your joy and peace at every turn. Negative challenges are going to occur, but it is how we respond that will determine the outcome. Decisions we make in life can be very rewarding or can be a setback. It is easy to have regrets in life (most of us do), but in Luke 9:62 (ESV), Jesus said, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.”
Jesus knows we are going to make mistakes and have regrets, but I believe the meaning of this scripture is that God’s grace and mercy are always in front of us. We just need to receive and rest in His goodness. No matter what has occurred in the past, God is always there to encourage us, and He will never turn away from us.
Be content about where God has you. Comparing yourself to someone else, or wanting what they have, will almost always cause frustration, and it’s unhealthy. Focusing on what the Lord has given you, and about His call upon your life, will help you stay in the right mindset. We see that in 1 Timothy 6:6 (ESV) which says, “But godliness with contentment is great gain.”
We are typically our own worst critic, but always remember God’s grace is sufficient. John 1:16 (NIV) says, “Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given.” Remember, you cannot change the past. Don’t’ worry about the things of this world; move forward and look with joy to the future. Matthew 6:34 (NIV) says, “Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
Ultimately, being in God’s will is the best place to be and will help you plow into the great future He has planned for you!
Ryan Jochims is a staff member of Lord of Hosts Church.