The Devil has many snares designed to trip up even the most committed Christian. From a critical spirit to the mindset of “good enough,” Satan is busily engaged in distracting, disabling, even destroying the witness of many who walk with Jesus. One of Satan’s most insidious traps is the impotent phrase, “IF ONLY . . . !” Over the years in ministry I have counseled far too many men and women who don’t know what they want out of life, but they are certain it is something different from what they are currently experiencing. They say things like:
“If only I could get a better job (or my old job back) . . . a bigger house . . . a nicer car . . . then I would be happy!”
“If only I could go back to school and get that degree . . . I’d be a success!”
“If only I could find the right (that’s code for “perfect”) person to marry . . . then I could settle down!”
“If only I could take back the words I said in anger . . . then everything would be alright!”
“If only I could lose this extra weight . . . then I would be accepted and approved of!”
At the deepest level, every “If only” is an indictment against God. We are confessing that we are dissatisfied with the portion God has graciously given to us! We simply have not learned the secret of contentment (which we explored in Wednesday’s blog).
Christian, you have been made for increase, and the Bible testifies to that from Genesis to Revelation. There are two keys to understanding the law of increase:
- Increase in the areas that are most important to God.
- Be satisfied with what you have while in pursuit of what God wants for you.
What aspect of your life have you been looking back on with pain, guilt, or regret? It is important to look back to the past and learn from it, but not to live in it! Treat the past like a schoolmaster and grow from all of your life experiences.
Take a moment to prayerfully consider and answer the following statement: “IF ONLY I . . . !” If it is anything less than growing up into Christ, you are shrinking the size of your life down to the size of your life. Jesus saved you for a great deal more than that!
Remember, satisfaction and significance can only be found in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Nothing on this side of the grave was ever intended to do for you what only Christ can do. This is the Gospel. This is grace for your race. NEVER FORGET THAT…AMEN!
Grace for the Race 