There is an old saying that stands the test of time and truth that states: “It’s not how you start, but how you finish that matters.”
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV
What if everything to this point in your life was part of a greater life plan? What if you replaced regret with acceptance? Acceptance that the roads you have travelled were an education to prepare you. That the lows were building a foundation on which others can lean on and hold to. That God never makes mistakes nor wastes time and your life and life experiences certainly is not a mistake or a waste of time.
“We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 NIV
Accepting is a critical part in the process of flourishing. Approaching today, tomorrow and the days forward from an outward living perspective allows you to share and provide. When we share and provide the hope that is found through Jesus, the joy that is found through assurance, the purpose that is assigned through salvation and the gratitude that comes from a recognition of Grace and Mercy received but not deserved, then our impact for the Kingdom begins to emerge.
“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.” Psalm 20:7 NIV
So on this middle day of this week of gratitude pursuit, say boldly “Father, I accept that all things in my life are for the good that my life can and will reflect and deliver.” Regret is a ball and chain that prevents our running and soaring. When God regretted making humans in Genesis and assigning Saul as king in 1 Samuel, he did not abandon his plans but replaced the vessels. Regret is a tool of Satan that limits our impact. God has not and will not abandon you and desires only to free you so you live and thrive in the life he has assigned you.
The verse from Proverbs 3 written earlier states ‘…and lean not on your own understanding.’ What a gift. This is your out from the limiting lies of regret. Trust, lean on him, and your path will be straightened. This is your get out of jail free card. Your life plan. Your life assignment. Your life compass. These are the empowering truths of a life surrendered to God for kingdom purposes. This is the life we are all created for.
I have heard people say many times “I am grateful to be alive.” Are you really? Do your life’s actions reflect a grateful heart? You are the lighthouse for someone lost in the storm of life. You really are!
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16 KJV
Joy, Joy, Joy is a song that so many of us sang as children whose message is one that Believers in Christ should reflect. I sing this periodically around our kids, most of the time with responses of rolled eyes but always with smiles that creep on their faces as I sing. We simply cannot espouse joy and retain a sullen aura. Sing and reflect joy because eternity is joy.
“I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart
Where?
Down in my heart!
Where?
Down in my heart!
I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart
Down in my heart to stay
And I’m so happy, so very happy
I’ve got the love of Jesus in my heart
Down in my heart.
And I’m so happy, so very happy
I’ve got the love of Jesus in my heart.”
You’ve got this.