A Lesson Learned: Looking to the Past Makes the Future Seem Brighter

Prince Charming and I traveled to our nation’s capitol for a few days this past week. This was my first time to visit Washington, D.C. He had to go for business and I tagged along…”vacations” are much less expensive when more than half of the expenses are paid! The boys stayed most of the time with my mom and dad and my in-laws kept them for the rest of the time. We had a great time, though I missed my babies like crazy. I couldn’t wait to kiss their sweet faces when we got home!

With the current state of our government and economy, it’s easy to become disheartened with everything going on around us. We’ve dug ourselves in a giant financial hole and now we’re struggling to pull ourselves out. But one thing this trip did for me was to affirm that everything will be okay.

Standing in awe of all of the monuments and memorials, I was reminded of everything our great nation has endured. We’ve weathered wars, an end to slavery, attacks on our homeland, presidential assassinations, and the Great Depression. Thousands of military heroes have sacrificed their lives. Countless leaders have made the right decision, regardless of whether it was the popular one.

The Korean War Memorial…my grandpa fought in this war

We’ve seen our fair share of troubling times but time and again, we’ve overcome. We’ve stood united. How can the outcome of this challenge be any different?

And then I thought even deeper…how much more should I feel this same sentiment about my own life in light of my relationship with God. The future is unknown. Jesus himself says there will be trials. There will be suffering. We are guaranteed of this. And that, quite frankly, scares the bejeebers out of me.

But as I look back on my spiritual walk with God, I am even more marveled at how He has carried me through trying times. He has comforted my family in times of great suffering and He has literally turned my “mountains” into molehills when I start to worry (which happens all-too-frequently).

To illustrate this point in your own life, get out a piece of paper and write three major struggles you have had in the past. It could be a tragedy, time of temptation, or just a difficult time for you physically or emotionally. Beside (or underneath), write how you felt God has brought you through that time or even the small victories you felt along the way.

Perhaps you recognized His mercies along the way, or perhaps this is a new revelation to you. Irregardless, Reflecting on how God’s graceful and merciful hand has led you through some of the darkest times in life can be a comfort for present and future trials. Rest assured, everything will be okay.