What do the memories of your past tell you about your future? Most of us probably have a mixture of good, bad and ugly ones but none of them need to define our futures. The scriptures say that our latter days will be greater than our former but that is conditioned upon choices we make now.
Recently I made a trip to my home town where I attended a 90th birthday celebration for one of my favorite uncles. That same week I attended a 50th high school class reunion and, in between these two exciting events, visited with a few individuals while exploring the area where I grew up.
This caused me to experience a dynamic, emotional roller coaster. One day I was filled with joy and excitement and the next day I struggled with grief and sadness as memories surfaced in my mind.
Every person I encountered had photos they wanted to share from the past. Some reminded me of how close my family was. We always came together for weddings, graduations, birthdays and funerals to support and celebrate one another. Then there were some pictures that caused me to remember those rebellious years when I was rather undisciplined.
How different things may have been had those adjectives not defined me in those early days. Unfortunately, those characteristics helped create the bumpy road that led me into some very difficult places. To be totally honest, things actually got so bad that it became necessary for me to move far away from that area.
Back then the only way to find a new path was to move away and start completely over. After relocating I met somebody that had a major influence on the way I thought, which ultimately changed the way I acted. Though I was raised in a loving family this particular person loved me in a way that made me want to listen to every word He said and to follow His ways.
Some of you have already guessed that this person is Jesus, the son of the living God. I began to understand that He loved me so much that He actually died so that I could live. My sins needed to be atoned for, something I could not do for myself. He willingly went to the cross to shed His blood even while I was still living in sin. When I understood and accepted what He had done I followed Him onto a path that led to a new life.
While visiting with family and friends this past week more pictures were taken. These new photos will serve to remind me that my past has not defined my future, because of a very wise choice I made 35 years ago (to follow Jesus).
Do you have any negative adjectives that define you that are creating bumpy roads? Do those roads take you to places you don’t want to be? You can change your direction and change your future!
If you haven’t already asked Jesus to be Lord of your life…do it now. If you have asked Him and you still struggle to find that new path please leave a specific comment and let me help. I will stay confidential if you choose.
Get on that straight and narrow path for a bright future. Amen!!!!
Dr. Terry