ORACLES: Lesson 22

Every saint has a past, and every sinner has a future – Oscar Wilde.

You’re on top and still rising! That’s right, you’re headed towards all the will of God for your life. Just keep looking forward. I am rejoicing with you!

I do a lot of highway driving and there are times when I'm headed towards my destination that I’m over the speed limit--just a bit, (lol). When that happens, it’s easy to look behind me with hopes that I’m not being trailed by a police officer with lights. Yet, that’s futile because if there are blue and red swirls flashing in my rearview mirrors, it’s because I was caught long before I looked in the mirrors to check. Meaning, if I want to avoid possible delay and/or penalty in life, I have to scan the landscape in front of me because that’s where enforcement is positioned to catch me, not behind me.

In the same way, I encourage you to stop looking behind you to determine what’s possible for your future (you're already snagged if you do). What’s done is done; the past is irrelevant. Focus on what’s in front of you. Right beside the will of God is the distraction, the obstacle and/or the counterfeit. Be alert, vigilant and able to discern or recognize your weakness, or your shortcomings. If you can identify them while you’re strong, you won’t easily fall prey to them when pursuing God’s will for your life.

If you know certain people are a distraction, set your future up without them. If you know you’re prone to procrastination, schedule your days. If you know that you’re easily rattled by sudden changes, create contingency plans now. If you know your attractions take you off course, set up diversions. Do what you need to circumvent any sway towards weakness.

God warned Cain of the sin in front of him (Genesis 4:7). Jesus warned Simon of the sin in front of him (Luke 22:31). And I’m warning you of the sin/weakness in front of you. (Matthew 26:41) “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” 1 Peter 5:8 (NIV) You don’t have to succumb. “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The Spirit is indeed willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Matthew 26:41)

Stop looking back and keep your eyes on the prize!