I hear a lot about “the good old days,” but I have noticed that many people have selective memories about them. Either they remember the days in a better light than they were in reality, or they only remember the pleasant things while conveniently ignoring the more unpleasant parts. While I think it is beneficial to reflect fondly on our pleasant past, if we become so preoccupied with the past that we fail to engage today and look with faithful anticipation toward the future, then we have done God a major disservice.
Don’t Look Back
While we may not consciously think of it this way, when we think our past is better than our present or the potential in our future we fail to trust the sovereignty of God. With only the wisdom that God could have and according to His great pleasure, He brought you into the world WHEN and WHERE He did, and He has brought you to this point in your life to serve His great purpose. Preferring a past that seemed more enjoyable places our wants and pleasures ahead of God’s grand design and His awesome purpose in our lives.
Three Ways to Live for Today and Look Forward to the Future
In Ephesians 5:15-18, Paul gives us great direction for living in the moment and preparing for God’s future for our lives. From these verses we can see three perspectives to incorporate in our lives.