|
Viewpoint from Brett Crosson 07/08/2015
Brett Crosson
Minister, Emmanuel Church
 Regret is a small word that often packs huge consequences. From spending too much time in a problematic relationship, to investing in a crumbling conglomerate, to neglecting one’s physical health, we all find ourselves at times trapped in a tunnel of negative self-recrimination – If only. Sometimes the accusatory voice lasts a few minutes or days, sometimes years
If you find yourself plagued by regrets, please do not allow your regrets to define you. You are not a failure, or a loser. You are simply a human being who has made some poor decisions. Something everyone does. The good news is that no one has to carry their burden of regret
If your regret is a result of a moral failure that has left you hurt and broken, then talk to your Creator about it. He is the only One who can help you with such feelings of guilt and regret. He cares. He wants you to bring your burdens to Him
At times, asking forgiveness from those who have suffered from your poor choices is necessary too. This is often a very hard thing to do. But saying sorry is a necessary part of making amends and moving on with your life
 It is also important to learn from your mistakes. This can help you avoid pitfalls in the future. And they can help you to help others if, of course, they are willing to listen and learn
That’s one of the main reasons for all the stories in the Bible. From Cain and Abel to Judas and Peter, the Bible is full of lessons meant to help us live joyful lives without any regrets
One of the main ways to avoid regret, the Bible says, is to prioritise the most important things in life. We are thus constantly told to love others. And we are NEVER encouraged to revolve our lives around material gain. It’s true: no-one ever says on their deathbed: “I wish I’d spent more time at the office”
The greatest regret, Jesus says, is when we live lives that neglect the soul. Jesus asks: What will it profit a man to gain the whole world, but lose his soul?
If regrets riddle your life, remember too that your Creator can still fashion your life anew. He can turn anything around. He can work out everything for your good. Trust Him to do just that for you
|
|
|
|
