“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.“ (Ephesians 5:15-16 NIV)
Many today worry that they've wasted much of their lives on things of little value, such as building a financial empire (at the cost of their family); building a fortune for someone else (without much to show for it); or choosing the wrong career. They haven't made “the most of every opportunity“ and are virtually paralyzed with regret.
“Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.“ (2 Corinthians 7:10 NIV)
Like us, Paul had regrets, but he knew to put the past behind him and focus on the future. “...one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.“ (Philippians 3:13 NIV)
It's never too late to come to faith in the Lord Jesus, and it's never too late to allow Him to direct our lives. He strengthens, encourages, and restores us with gentle grace.
“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.“ (2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV)
Don't let Satan defeat you because of foolish choices. While we can't rewrite history, we're able to forge a new and glorious future for the glory of God. Regardless of your past choices, ask the Lord to help you choose His way and to empower you to follow and obey.
Remember Paul's words in Philippians 2:13, “...for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.“ (NIV)
This is the grand promise in our verse today. Read and reread it, and bring it to your loving Father in prayer. He's willing (and able) to assist you in writing new chapters in your life that will cause the past to fade away.
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.“ (1 John 1:9 NIV)
Go in the strength of The Lord and make up for lost time.
“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.“ (Psalm 51:12 NIV)
“How are you using your time? Life is short and very uncertain. You never know what a day may bring forth. Business and pleasure, money-getting and money-spending, eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage—all, all will soon be over and done with forever. And you, what are you doing for your immortal soul? Are you wasting time, or turning it to good account? Are you preparing to meet God?“ J.C. Ryle
