(Original post 3/1/2012 – Updated 2/26/2021)

I had my share of epic, make-believe playground battles when I was a kid, and it seemed like no conflict was won or lost without a few casualties, (thankfully only temporary!)

While some kids were attacking the enemy with stick guns, laser rays and the occasional dirt clod cannonball, the preferred means of a quick, painless death for other kids (like me) was….poison.

Depending on how long we were interested in the game, the poison could also serve as a sleeping potion. Someone would lay on the ground motionless until satisfied they had passed for mortally wounded, then would somehow muster up the strength to lift the antitode to their lips, declare the poison had “worn off” and jump up to play again!

re·gret

Ever had a regret?

I know I have.

There are words I wish I hadn’t (or had) spoken….choices I wish I hadn’t (or had) made….relationships I wish I had better tended to…….I’ve had regrets! But it’s pretty hard to make our way through life without them, right?  So, as people of faith, what do we do with regrets?

1.  We acknowledge them and bring every one before God, along with the pain we feel.
2.  If need be, we own up to a decision or action we wish we hadn’t made and if possible, try to make amends.
3.  We forgive ourselves – get up – take the next step – and trust God to lead the way.

One of the the dangers in not dealing with the poison of regret is that it’s grip will just continue holding us down until we have a really hard time getting up again.  It’s so easy to relive our mistakes, or missed opportunities over and over until life turns just grey and nothing feels right again.

But that’s not how God intends for us to experience life! 

And because God is God, none of our regrets or mistakes are ever wasted. Those same regrets can also serve to make us stronger, wiser and more compassionate people in this world, offering love and hope to others who are dealing with their own challenges.

So, to those who have struggled with the poison of regret and sometimes find it hard to see the way out, know that God was with you then, as God is with you now, just waiting to plant amazing new ideas and dreams in your heart once you make some room.  I KNOW it’s not easy….trust me…..but we aren’t alone.  God freely offers the antidote. Our part is to allow the healing to begin, drink in God’s peace and love, get up on our feet…. and live.

Right there with you,

Shellie  ♥

“Guide me in your truth and teach me,  for you are God my Savior,  and my hope is in you all day long.”  Psalm 25:5