No Steps Backward

Many times, during our birthdays, we tend to look backward to the times when life was simpler, we had more fun, or even when we were in better physical shape. Others look back to see how far they’ve come from to where they are now. While it is ok to take some time to reflect over the past, it is important to remember that we can’t go back there. In some cases, we can’t go back to the younger carefree version of ourselves to relive “the good old days”. In other cases, we can’t revisit the past to undo our past mistakes. Whether good or bad, we had a completely different outlook when we were younger. We were practically different people. We can’t go back. We really don’t need to. 

In 2 Timothy 2:22 Paul advises to flee from youthful lusts. To run away from the things we wanted in the past. We aren’t that person anymore. We should want different things than when we were younger. Take me for example. When I was younger, I studied martial arts with the hopes of becoming a professional fighter. Now, in my current stage of life, I now have zero interest in any of that. I am much more focused on being a better husband, father, and missionary to God’s glory. Things change. They are supposed to. 

There is another part to Paul’s advice. We aren’t just supposed to flee our youthful lusts, we are to pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart. While we aren’t taking any steps backward, we are not standing still either. It’s not good to just stay the same and be stagnant. We are to pursue things that are going to make us better than we were. God wants us to both grow closer to Him and mature as believers. Doing so is much easier when we surround ourselves with likeminded people. Which means that sometimes we must let go of those relationships that are still living in the past and expect us to be our younger selves forever. So, as you enjoy your special day, please remember that it is fine to look back and reflect on where you’ve been and who you were. Let’s not step backwards though trying to get back what we lost. God calls us forward to pursue better things. To be better people than our younger selves. God Bless.

Frank H

 ’80 / ’94 San Jose Costa Rica www.colaborers.com/Hynsons

Doris Jean H

’44 / ’55 Manheim PA