Look Back and Thank God, Look Forward and Trust God
Our faith is all about a personal relationship with the God who created us from an overflow of His love. There are two crucial traits we must embody if we are to grow in that relationship daily: Thankfulness and trust.
Thankfulness allows us to look back upon our life and show gratitude to God for the way He has led us to where we are today. Romans 8:28 says, “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” In all the good times, and all the bad, God has been leading you toward a purpose. You can rest assured that He has a plan for your life. He is worthy of your gratefulness for leading you along that path.
Trust is essential in order for our faith to grow as well. It’s important to trust the vision path God has shown you. He’s trustworthy. You can trust Him with your future and where He is leading you. He will NEVER lead you astray. He wants nothing more than to guide you to the fulfillment of your ultimate potential in Him.
Together, thankfulness and trust will spark a new fire in your faith, leading you deeper and deeper into God’s love. You’ll find yourself embracing your identity in Christ more and more each day while making huge strides toward the purpose He has called you to. Spend time with Him daily, and as your relationship blooms, so too will these feelings you are working hard to cultivate.
Keep thankfulness and trust for the Lord alive within your heart. Remember the blessings He has poured out upon your life so far and trust Him to show you the path forward as you embrace your future. Never forget to look back and thank God, all while looking forward and trusting Him!
Reflection Questions
- Look back upon your spiritual journey thus far. What blessings should you be thanking God for today?
- How can you better cultivate a lasting posture of trust and thankfulness in the Lord? Where do you need to shift your perspective?
- How does growing closer in relationship to God help to further our trust and thankfulness in Him? What steps can you take to deepen your relationship with the Lord today?
- Read Romans 8:28. Where has God used both the good and bad experiences in your life to draw you toward the purpose He has prepared for you? How has that changed your life?
Prayer
Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness. Your character is the very definition of what it means to be trustworthy and true. Help to grow within me a heart filled with nothing but love, trust, and thankfulness for You. You are the author of all good things in my life, and because of it, I long to give you praise. In Your holy and beautiful name, I pray, Amen.