Rearview Mirror

Scripture:  Philippians 3:13-14 NKJV - Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

When you’re driving, you greatly depend on the side-view mirrors that are on the vehicle’s exterior as well as the front windshield and the interior rearview mirror. But have you ever noticed that when you look in the rearview mirror, it obscures your ability to see what’s in front of you? Think about it – imagine yourself sitting behind the steering wheel, looking into the rearview mirror which gives you a glimpse of what’s behind you. Now, look through the front windshield – you can clearly see what’s in front of you! The small mirror has a limited view of what you’ve already passed while the windshield allows you to see a much broader view of what’s to come … are you with me?

Life has many twists and turns, ups and downs, mountains and valleys. Your perspective will determine how you go through your tests and trials. Are you looking behind you at the things of your past? Things that may cause feelings of shame, guilt, unworthiness?? Or are you looking through the front windshield of endless possibilities to become all that God created you to be? No matter how bad you think your life has been/is/will be, God sees beyond your past, your guilt, your shame. He’s able to see you and all the potential He has placed in you!

“It’s impossible to keep moving forward when you’re constantly looking back … your past is not your future. Your history does not need to define your destiny.”    ~ Christine Caine

Changing your perspective includes changing your thinking – no more ‘stinkin thinkin’! You change your thinking by changing your thoughts. Keep your mind stayed on Him! (Isaiah 26:3) Speaking God’s Word to yourself and over your life will infuse your life with His thoughts, which are higher than ours. (Isaiah 55:9) Talk to God, seek His face, bask in His presence … spend time with Him! The more time you spend with God, the more you will think like Him; the more you will ‘see’ like Him. Then as you navigate life with God, you will be so in tune with Him that when He says “Turn right …”, you will turn right. You will learn that obedience really is better than sacrifice. And guess what? The view from up front is far better than the glimpse of your past that’s in that rearview mirror! EYES FRONT, STAY FOCUSED!!

Prayer: Father, Your Word says if I confess my sins, You are faithful and just to forgive me my sins and cleanse me from all unrighteousness! I need Your forgiveness and Your cleansing! I have spent too many days looking behind me and not focusing on You as You call me to be what You want me to be – not what others think of me, not even what I think of myself! Help me to remember that You have GREAT(er) things in store for me! Help me remember that YOU ARE FAITHFUL, even when I am faith-less! My disobedience doesn’t stop Your plans for my life! Thank You for counting me worthy to be called Your child! Thank You for never leaving nor forsaking me! Thank You for being the God of another chance. Thank You for being my spiritual eyes, thank You for your protection through dangers seen and unseen. Thank You for showing me ME! Thank You for Your lovingkindness, Your amazing grace, Your tender mercy(ies), Your unconditional love! I love You and adore You, Father! Forever, You’re my King! In Your Son’s Name I always pray … AMEN!

(by Casey Turner)