Don't Look BackSample

Looking Back Is A Heart Condition

The scriptures teach us that as a man thinks in his heart so is he (Proverbs 23:7 NIV).

If we examined this closer, we could see that most of what we act out in life find its origins in our thoughts. Day after day whatever we ponder on, meditate on and dwell on becomes a reality sooner or later. Our thoughts are powerful and will eventually determine the future we will experience. Have you ever heard the saying "Follow your heart?" Well, there is so much truth wrapped up in that saying, and even the Bible talks about our heart following our treasure (Luke 12:34). 

Our heart was made to follow the ultimate treasure which is God himself, but only Jesus could give us the heart to understand that, and without this understanding, we will chase riches of this world of lesser value.

Looking back and living in the past constantly is a clear indication you believe your treasures are still buried there. A woman in the Bible only went by the title of Lot's wife, and her heart was so caught up in the treasures of this world she could not see the grand future God had planned out for her. I am sure many of you have heard of the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah and the destruction of fire and brimstone that rained down and ruined them. Lot's wife lived there with her family, and though it was a place of much immorality and disgraces, her heart was very much tied to it. But because of the prayers of Abraham God would save Lot and his family from the devastation. God allowed them enough time to escape with this instruction, 

"Do not look behind you nor stay anywhere in the plain." (Genesis 19:17 NIV). 

When I look back at my life, I am so thankful that God brought me out of many situations that would have only resulted in my destruction had I stayed there. In the moment of having to leave behind people, possessions and relationships we hold close and dear to us may seem like the most challenging thing to do. But when you put your trust in the One who knows best; the present pain will eventually turn into the greatest gain in life. Lot's wife's treasures were so buried in the city she had to leave behind that she was not willing to trust God with the future. The Bible tells us that as she was leaving the city she "Looked back" and was turned into a pillar of salt. The truth about looking back constantly and living in the past is that it will drain the very life from you. Let us heed the warning of God and make sure our heart is following him.

Holy Spirit, help me today to leave the past behind and lead me to an abundant life ahead!