The No Returns Policy

November 21st
The No Returns Policy
By: Anna Williams

I believe that God occasionally allows wilderness moments in our lives to see how we respond to them. By wilderness moments I mean times when we feel lost or lack direction and we feel that we’ve been left to our own devices. We essentially have a choice to make; continue onward in blind faith with the memories of God’s Greatness or turn back.

“Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.”  - 1 Corinthians 15:58 ESV

“Like a dog that returns to his vomit is a fool who repeats his foolishness.” – Proverbs 26:11 AMP

I don’t know if it’s because I have a goldendoodle that swipes and eats scrunchies or what, but the second verse here resonates strongly with me. I don’t want to be someone who keeps trying the same broken methods and repeats stupid mistakes. Life is too short to keep marching around the same mountain of regret.

Emotions are useful and important, but they should not solely dictate our actions. If we get caught up in them, we can act like fools.

We cannot rely on them for sound judgment. They must be weighed against our beliefs, values and most importantly the Word of God. Knowing the Lord, his attributes and his past record of glorious actions can help us remain steadfast in obedience.

Have you been struggling with the temptation to return to something that isn’t good for you? Take a moment now to pray about it and ask for wisdom on how to confront it.