Don’t Look Back

It may seem strange that God says here not to look back, because throughout scripture He instructs His people to remember the past things He has done for them–the miraculous ways He delivered them, set them free, provided for their needs. He tells them to remember in order to build up their faith. It works that way for me, too.

However, today when I read this I felt like He had a word for me (us). I believe He is saying don’t long for the things He has already done. They might have been spectacular. They might have filled us with joy. They might have renewed our faith at the time.

But, He is a Creator God who continually has plans for us. While He may choose to do some of the things He’s already done, we are NOT to long for those things, saying “I wish He would do that again. It was so amazing.” Or “God, why don’t you work like that now?”

Believe me, I’ve been tempted to look backwards and wonder. But He has shown me that the things coming are the best yet. Hard to fathom since He’s filled—FILLED—my life with such good things.

Look at how He says, “Even now it sprouts and grows”! Oooooh I can’t wait!

Then our Father God says that He is going to do new things in us, for us, so that we—the people He made for Himself—will praise Him.

Have you ever thought about how much affirmation means to us? It feels so good to have someone pat us on the back, tell us we’ve done well, and especially tell us how much they love us, or appreciate us.

Of course God likes it too! We are created in His image, after all. 

He really does enjoy it when His people praise Him. And He loves us enough to work things together for our good. In verse 20 He says again that He will supply streams of water in the desert and rivers in the wilderness. I call that provision! And then, if we are conscious of His work in our lives (like we should be) we will praise Him! If you are like me you won’t be able to help yourself!  

God’s message to me—“look eagerly ahead to what He is going to do”—has put an excitement in my spirit!

I hope it speaks to you, also, and I pray for God’s blessing on your new year!

 

Another verse to hide in your heart:

*1 Peter 2:9 You are God’s chosen treasure…He called you out of darkness into His marvelous light, and now claims you as His very own. He did this so that you would broadcast His glorious wonders throughout the world. (The Passion Translation)