Monday, June 10, 2019

Pastor's Ponderings, June 10, 2019

My Steps Are Ordered

“If I Had to Do It All Over Again” was the name of a 1976 film.  The title is intriguing because some may consider what they would do if they could live life all over again.  What would we do? Where would we go? What would we invest in? Who would we let in our life? Who would we refuse to have any relationship?  What would our priorities be in our new life that we never considered in the past?  

In the study of Economics, there is a term called, “Opportunity Cost,” which means “the loss of potential gain from other alternatives when one alternative is chosen.”  For example, you could have been an actor, but you chose to be a teacher.  You might have been a cellist, but you chose to be preacher.

We do not have to worry about paths not taken because the Bible says that God knows the thoughts that He thinks toward us in order to bring us to an expected end (Jeremiah 29:11).  He is not shocked when we make bad decisions because He decrees that all things work together for the good for those who love the Lord (Romans 8:28).  Those who thought they made the wrong choice in life and are seeking a “do-over” should not worry because God declares that He makes the steps of a good man or woman firm so they will not fall (Psalm 37:23-24).  

We can comfort ourselves and any others who are experiencing buyers remorse over relationships not pursued, business decisions not made or opportunities not explored because God knew your days before you were born (Psalm 139:16).  

For those who are still convinced that their life is hopeless, their situation is dire, and they are slated for failure because of their bad decisions, there is still hope.  God said His compassions are renewed every morning because He is such a faithful and loving God (Lamentations 3:22-23). Everyday is a new day to obey an awesome God who gives us a fresh lease on life.  We can rejoice because we can live our life all over again every day in God.

Jeremiah 29:11
New International Version (NIV)
11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Romans 8:28
New International Version (NIV)
28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Psalm 37:23-24
New International Version (NIV)
23 The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him;
24 though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.

Psalm 139:16
New International Version (NIV)
16 Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.

Lamentations 3:22-23
New International Version (NIV)
22 Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.
23 They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.





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