When looking forward is too overwhelming, Kerryn reminds us to look back at God’s faithfulness.
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him” (James 1:12).
I confess to having a time of “dummy spits” with God lately–and with others. God has used them to draw me to look at life backwards. Quotes, video clips, devotionals, bible verses and even TV continue to follow this theme.
What is a dummy spit? The Urban Dictionary says, “It is an Australian term that means to indulge in a sudden display of anger or frustration; to lose one’s temper. The phrase is usually used of an adult, and the implication is that the outburst is childish, like a baby spitting out its dummy in a tantrum and refusing to be pacified. A ‘dummy’ is a pacifier.”
C.S. Lewis says,
“Both good and evil, when they are full grown, become retrospective . . . That is what mortals misunderstand. They say of some temporal suffering ‘no future bliss can make up for it,’ not knowing that Heaven, once attained, will work backwards and turn even that agony into a glory!”
So often I look at suffering the wrong way. I’m focusing on the now, not on the future. However God’s ways are often opposite to what we think they are.
Our recent Commonwealth Games had athletes competing for gold, silver, and bronze medals. They included the para sports for the first time in this Games, which is special.
The pain, crashes, injuries, exhaustion, failures, weaknesses, and disappointments are not their focus. Everything about them is focused on the end goal, making all of the suffering along the way worthwhile! Those athletes who have been through the worst of times seem to be the most refined, humble, grateful and delighted when they achieve a medal, or even a personal best.
We’re not so different to them!
Our focus is on the glory of Heaven, being with Jesus, singing with the angels, hearing “well done, good and faithful servant” and receiving our crown of life.
What a glorious day that will be, where we will remember no more our tears, pain, grief, and loss.
This is not about focusing on heaven so much that “we’re of no earthly good!” This is about knowing where we are going and using each day to be prepared by our Coach.
Prayer: Lord, help me to change my focus. Guide me to see past the pain, exhaustion, and illnesses to where You are taking me. Use each day for Your glory now and forever. Amen.
About the Author:
Kerryn Wright lives with her family amongst the gum trees in South Australia. She was a special education teacher prior to chronic illnesses. Her husband is carer for three of their family, who have chronic illnesses and disabilities. God has always guided them through life’s challenges, often in surprising ways.
How does looking backwards, from a heavenly perspective, help you on a daily basis?
This is the group For King and Country singing “Fix My Eyes.” It is one of the top new Christian songs and talks about what we would do if we could look back and do it differently–and how we can do that today. Hope it blesses you… lovely lyrics. -Lisa
Chronic Illness Pain Daily Devotionals 