If
you have a tendency to despair over lost opportunities or if you worry about
the future, ask yourself this question: “What is right in front of me?” In
other words, what circumstances and relationships are currently available to
you? This question can get your focus off a past regret or a scary future and
back to what God can do in your life.
It’s
similar to the question God asked Moses at the burning bush. Moses was
troubled. Aware of his own weaknesses, he expressed fear about the Lord’s call
for him to lead Israel out of bondage. So God simply asked Moses, “What is that
in your hand?” (Ex. 4:2) The Lord shifted Moses’ attention away from his
anxiety about the future and suggested he notice what was right in front of
him—a shepherd’s rod. God showed Moses that He could use this ordinary staff to
perform miracles as a sign for unbelieving people. As Moses’ trust in God grew,
so did the magnitude of miracles God worked through His servant.
Do you think about past failures too much? Do you have fearful thoughts about the future? Recall God’s question: “What is that in your hand?” What current circumstances and relationships can God use for your benefit and His glory? Entrust them—and your life—to Him.
but you’ll ruin the present by worrying about the future. (RBC)
