Looking Backwards

"I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done. I spread out my hands to you; my soul thirsts for you like a parched land." Psalm 143:5-6

These were the words of David when he was overwhelmed, frightened and unsure of which way to turn. How many times have we lived these emotions only to wake up one day and find that we have been delivered from our circumstances? There was no one action that delivered us but One person alone - Christ Jesus.

There have been times in my life when I look back in amazement that I made it through specific seasons. Certain seasons brought the rains of refreshment and the breezes of joy while other seasons brought the shattering of earthquakes and the swells of high waters. Many times of suffering leave us with the aroma of bitterness and anger if we do not submit these emotions to the Lord for healing. Our look backwards will focus on regret or gratitude that God has delivered us and remained faithful to carry us through all times. By meditating on the different ways He has worked our circumstances to our benefit it allows us to "spread out our hands to Him" and release the anger, frustration and bitterness of previous situations and enjoy the peace and healing that is ours through Him. To spread out our hands is to release anything your fist so tightly holds such as the leftover emotions of a time foregone.

Remember, bitterness looks backwards while love looks forward. Bitterness and love cannot reside in the same heart. Spread open your hands to the LORD and allow Him to fill them with blessings.