Patrick Henry, whose primary contribution to the history books is the phrase “Give me liberty or give me death,” made another memorable statement.
He said, “I know of no way of judging the future but by the past.”
Repeat this before a group of your friends, and you’ll see many heads nod in agreement. It has the ring of good common sense.
Be careful, though. This axiom might be true when it is applied to politics or history or investing, but it provides a lousy foundation for developing relationships. And it certainly doesn’t reflect the way God relates to us.
God gives us a chance to let go of the past and start over — each and every day. Jeremiah wrote in the book of Lamentations, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
God doesn’t judge our future by our past. He didn’t do it with David or Moses or Peter or Paul or countless other Bible characters. As the Psalmist wrote, He does not treat us as our sins deserve. Every day is a new day.
A good way to start the day with God is to remember that you’ve just been given brand new mercies — the chance to start the day with a clean slate.
It’s also a good way to start the day with others. God doesn’t allow our past to prevent us from a having a great future, so enjoy the fresh start – and pass the gift along to others as well.
With Faith,
Roy
