Articles
“Prospective Adjustment”
By Don Case
Looking back on our lives has both advantages and disadvantages. Good can come from remembering the times when we experienced victory, joy and success. Sometimes looking back can stimulate us on to greater achievements, so it can be beneficial. There can be a problem if we get stuck in the past and quit moving forward.
When we look back on past failures and times that were truly miserable, it becomes harder and harder to move forward. Looking back at unsuccessful times or despair can remind us what God has taught us during those times. Such memories can help us avoid making the same mistakes again. Our past is just that, it is past. Leave yesterday behind, "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past" (Isaiah 43:18).
God promised to never leave us, to not forsake us, and to always be with us. He tells us to be strong and be of good courage, not to be afraid or dismayed, for the Lord our God is with us wherever we go. Knowing that God is always with us gives us hope, strength and encouragement. Indeed, we sing, "And He walks with me, and He talks with me."
Remember that happiness is as contagious as gloom. If we are happy we should show our gladness. Most of us are as happy as we decide to be. We should keep ourselves from taking life and ourselves too seriously.
Sometimes, when life just gets unbearably hard, it can help if we vision God's hand in our lives and remember He may have a plan in these situations.
Likewise, worrying about the future can be a fruitless activity. We cannot make good happen or keep bad from happening by worrying. Worrying about tomorrow can rob us of the joys of today. Planning for the future, however, does improve outcome. We can plan to have God as our partner in facing the challenges of life remembering that together is better. If we remain faithful, God has promised us eternal life with him. This is our true future and the thing we can completely count on.
HEAVEN WILL SURELY BE WORTH IT ALL
Often I'm hindered on my way, burdened so heavy I almost fall; Then I hear Jesus sweetly say; "Heaven will surely be worth it all."
Many the trials, tolls and tears, Many a heartache may here appall; But the dear Lord so truly says; "Heaven will surely be worth it all."
Toiling and pain I will endure, Till I shall hear the death angel call; Jesus has promised and I'm sure Heaven will surely be worth it all.
Heaven will surely be worth it all. Worth all the sorrows that here befall; After this life with all its strife, Heaven will surely be worth it all.
