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Bible Studies for Life Lesson for May 18: Hope Renewed
Bartley Wooten, pastor, Beulaville Baptist Church, Beulaville
May 06, 2014
2 MIN READ TIME

Bible Studies for Life Lesson for May 18: Hope Renewed

Bible Studies for Life Lesson for May 18: Hope Renewed
Bartley Wooten, pastor, Beulaville Baptist Church, Beulaville
May 06, 2014

Focal Passages: John 18:15-18, 25-27; 21:15-19

The average size of a rearview mirror is about 10 inches in length. By design, it is meant to be small so it does not hinder the driver’s view of upcoming traffic. Even though it is small, it is important because it helps you see what is near the rear of the car. However, as important as the rearview mirror is, it was never designed to be the main focus while you are driving. In fact, I’m certain a car manufacture will tell you it is extremely difficult and dangerous to drive your car forward when only looking in the rearview mirror. In other words, if you keep your focus on what is behind you while driving, it may lead to a destructive future.

All of us make mistakes and sin against God. Sometimes those sins have extreme consequences, and we must deal with them biblically.

However, we must also realize that when we confess our sin and ask God to forgive us based on the finished work of Jesus Christ that God genuinely forgives and forgets our transgressions. A great example of this is found in our focal passage. Jesus chose to forgive, forget and restore Peter to ministry after he sinned. It is evident that Peter had a repentant heart, and it is also evident that Peter did not allow his past failure to impact his future success in service to our Lord.

In the same way, we must stop focusing in the rearview mirror of our lives and concentrate on what is in front of us. Once we confess our sin and God forgives us, we don’t need to dwell on our past failures.

Instead, we need to keep our eyes focused on the big picture and thank God for His mercy and grace.

So the next time you find yourself dwelling on the past, remember God’s plan for you involves a future full of hope. Therefore, spend less time looking in the rearview mirror and more time enjoying scenery in front of you, namely, God’s glory.