Looking in the Right Direction

Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:18, 19 (New International Version)

Often times, the ability to see what God is doing in the present is hindered by a continual looking back and longing for what He was doing in the past. When we focus on the old we are unable to see the new. It’s right in front of us but we don’t perceive it. Lot’s wife looked back and the result was tragic. While I will not be turned into a pillar of salt if I look back, I can certainly attest to the inability to move forward.

When tragedy or loss comes our way, it is easy to long for things to be the way they use to be. We hinge our happiness on how we use to live and feel. If significant people played huge roles in our life, their absence can have a profound effect on the way life appears to be. We may find it hard to let go of the desire to have the relationship restored and back in place. When change takes place, our world can feel like a desert and wasteland. The pit of nothingness can suddenly feel like home.

God’s answer in the midst of my questions? Forget the former things. Stop dwelling on the past. Take notice of the new things being done. Acknowledge the truth that He is making a way in my desert and placing streams in my wasteland. With that knowledge I am free to move forward on the path He is clearing for me and to find refreshment at the streams He is providing for me. Everything I need to live the abundant Christian life is at my disposal and is made available to me by my loving, Heavenly Father.

His intent for me at present is to live my life differently than I have in the past. He has placed new people in my life. Am I appreciating them and taking part in the relationships they offer? He has given me truths to replace the lies I have believed. Am I thinking on the truth, acting on the truth, and allowing the truth the change me? He planted seeds of wisdom and knowledge within my heart and mind. Am I allowing those seeds to grow and bring forth fruit and affect the lives of others? None of those things are possible if I continue to look back at what use to be because looking back takes my focus off God and what He is doing.

It is time for me to look away from the former things and look to the present workings of God in and around me. It is a matter of my will and a choice which is up to me. I have spent too much time looking back. It is time to look forward.

Father, give me the grace to change my focus, desires, and dreams. Help me to see all that You are doing now. I thank You for the past as I look to the future. Amen.

Pictures of Egypt - Sara Groves
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZcIA4Cnj6j4

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.