Parson to Person: You can't live backwards

With graduations in the air, it reminds us all of important memories and past achievements. It also makes us think of new chapters to be written in our lives.

The reality is this: Nobody gets to live life backward. You must look ahead; because that?s where your future is.

Six obstacles stop you from moving forward in life:

Obstacle 1: An unteachable attitude.

Imagine a surgeon who has no interest in new medical discoveries and breakthrough technology. Would you choose him? Think of a lawyer who refuses to read new laws and update her understanding? Would you hire her? Success demands growth. It?s what you learn after you know it all that counts. Keep learning. Stay open.

Obstacle 2: Unpaid vows.

Breaking your word is a source for failure, whether you vow to God or man ? Keep your word. Don?t make promises you don?t intend to keep. Do you owe money? Pay it. Did you make a promise? Keep it. Even when it?s hurtful to you personally, keep your word. Broken promises are the seeds of failure.

Obstacle 3: Unforgiveness.

Keeping hate alive within destroys you. It?s like trying to drive while you stare in the rear view mirror. You will crash! God is the ultimate judge. Stop trying to do His job. Here?s what I know. Hurting people hurt other people. Your hurt, your pain, your bitterness and anger will always hurt others. Get rid of it. Unforgiveness booby traps your life for failure.

Obstacle 4: Unwise friendships.

A person who walks with wise men will be wise; a companion of fools shall be destroyed (Proverbs 13:20). Unwise associations have destroyed potential and the careers of multiplied thousands of could-be-winners. Whoever does not increase you will eventually decrease you. Not everyone desires your friendship. Some just desire to use you. Be careful as you step forward. Be wise.

Obstacle 5: A loose tongue.

Words are powerful. They are tools God gives us to set His purpose in motion. ?Death and life are in the power of the tongue.? They build or destroy, build confidence or tear it down. Communicate faith or doubt. ?Control your mouth. By your words you will be justified and by your words you will be condemned? (Matthew12:37). When you talk about what you can do, it removes the can?ts from your life. Losers talk constantly, and it smells of criticism, whining and excuses. It will be an obstacle. Bridle your tongue.

Obstacle 6: Undeveloped talent.

The greatest source of unfulfilled potential is the graveyard where many people live with regret. The regret of not trying more, risking more and giving more. Intentions are not enough. Consult experts in your field. Respond to opportunities, don?t use excuses. Pray for direction. Read about others who did it. Then act with courage. God?s gift to you is your potential. Your worship to Him is what you do with it. Don?t bury it because of fear.

Remember: You can?t go backwards. Your future is in front of you, not behind you. Honor God and put Him first. He will make your future sure and rewarding!