It’s natural to look back and reflect on our lives, and I’m certainly no exception. For example, as I look back, I wish I had traveled less and spent more time at home as our children were growing up.

One reason for looking back is to be honest about our failures and to seek God’s forgiveness for them. That’s not always easy to do; our pride gets in the way, and we don’t like to admit we have failed. Every day, our prayer should be that of the Psalmist: “Search me, O God, and know my heart. … See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23-24).

But another reason for reflecting on our past is so that we will do better in the future. Life is short and we can’t change the past. But with God’s help we can change the future, as we seek to live according to His Word. The Bible says, “Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). No matter how young or old we are, God’s will is for us to live for Christ the rest of our days.

As I look back, I’m filled with gratitude for the many ways God has blessed me–ways I don’t deserve. I often recall God’s words to Paul: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). May this be your experience as you commit your life to Christ and follow Him every day.