What decisions can we make that will no longer allow our past regrets to determine our present condition?

No Regrets

As mentioned earlier, I was involved with a church that projected one leadership model, as evidenced by the preaching of the gospel, teachings relating to the one new man, the filling of the Spirit, the finished work of Christ, etc., that resulted in changed lives, and a worldwide vision for the lost. Yet, at times another leadership model was operating, which brought about confusion in the assembly relating to the authority of leadership, the anointed messages, financial obligations, and the subsequent lack of leadership accountability regarding matters pertaining to sexual sins. I’ve imagined what could’ve been both pros and cons if I had stayed in this church, and I’m sure that many who’ve left have contemplated the same things. Some would probably say this is called having regrets.

2 Corinthians 4:15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.

But, over time, God has impressed upon me through his Word that whatever has happened to us is for our sake.

Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

We’re also told that all things work together (while they are working, God's providence is working, His Spirit is working)48 for good (our ultimate good; the promotion of divine peace and happiness in our heart) to them that love God.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

We’re also instructed to give thanks in everything. One of the Koine Greek renderings of this verse is, “be thankful to God regardless of circumstances,” or “...despite whatever may happen.”49 Don’t let your past determine your present. Don’t let regret keep you in captivity to it.

While I was in this ministry, God changed my life. I experienced His presence as never before and learned how to appropriate His divine perspective in those areas of my life that I’ll call the weaknesses of the flesh (sin nature). By the grace of God, I am who I am. I also got involved with a different non-denomination church whose doctrinal platform was solid. The teachings that I learned from this ministry and the former one is what constitutes many of the teachings that are presented in my published books.

Here’s another verse, albeit written for the Jews in the Old Testament, which expresses a similar sentiment.

Psalms 90:15 Make us glad according to the days wherein thou hast afflicted us, and the years wherein we have seen evil.

Paraphrasing, this verse could say, make us to rejoice according to the days wherein you have humbled and proved us through suffering, and the years wherein we have experienced troubles.

Whether your sufferings are previous or present, ask God to reveal what He wants you to learn through it all. He’ll show this to you in His time and in His manner (i.e., by prayer, from a fellow believer, when reading the Word, while hearing teachings from the pulpit, etc.). When all is said and done, hopefully, we’ll respond with the words of Joseph when he unveiled himself to his brothers who had abandoned him years earlier.

Genesis 45:8 So now it was not you that sent me hither, but God:…

And, like him, God uses us to convey to others the great lessons He has taught us.

Thank you for reading this book. I hope it has enlightened you and helped you in your walk with God. God Bless!



Endnotes

48Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

49UBS.



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