The words from a devotional recently read have been stuck in my mind. While they were given for those whom were facing parenting challenges or insecurities, the wisdom in the words can be applied to a variety of situations.
“Be the best mom you can be today. You’ll learn more about motherhood as time goes by but never look back and beat yourself up for what you didn’t know. Recognize that you did your best with the information and skills you had at the time and don’t hold onto regrets.”
(from Be Still and Trust by Stacey Pardoe, page 50)
Returning to read these highlighted words in my copy, brought two thoughts:
- Each day I must do the best that I can.
- Tomorrow will take care of itself.
It was the second thought which brought much needed peace to my soul. It also brought the words of Jesus to mind:
“So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” (Matthew 6:34, NASB)
We can plan for tomorrow using wisdom, but we need not be filled with anxiety. Worrying about tomorrow will only rob us of being able, and effective, to deal with today. Worry will disable us from doing what is necessary today.
Single-mindedness is what we need. Reminding ourselves that God is sovereign and has not lost control over this world. We must rely on the Lord and trust Him fully, reminding ourselves of His promises and truths.
Returning to the words of Jesus, we are reminded that our Father knows our needs. Jesus also gives us the answer:
“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33, NASB)
Seek the kingdom of God above all else.
Do the best you can today,
and trust God for tomorrow.
It is amazing how God uses the experiences of others so that we, too, learn from His Word. He weaves both together so we learn in our current situations. In her post, Sharing From Our Experiences with the Lord, Barbara Harper cencourages us all to keep sharing so that we spur one another on and draw upon His Word and His strength.
Come, sit a spell. Bring your coffee, your posts, and your thoughts. If you link up, kindly visit those who have drawn up a seat around you.
Thanks so much for sharing my post about encouraging others from our experiences with the Lord.
I do have some regrets about how I handled parenting, caregiving, and other things. But I’ve learned it doesn’t help to keep beating myself up about them. I confess my failures and shortcomings to the Lord, try to learn from them, and ask Him to make up for them in others lives. And it’s true we learn about each of those roles and responsibilities as we go. Some of our failures are due to inexperience or lack of knowledge. I thank God He redeems our regrets and can turn them around.
We all probably have a few regrets. I know I sure do. Like you, I am most grateful for God’s grace which is greater than my regrets. May we press on 🙂 Blessings on the rest of your week!
Joanne, this is the second thing I’ve read this morning that talked about not worrying about tomorrow because God provides what we need today. It’s definitely a message I need to remember right now: Do the best I can today and trust God with ALL of it. Hugs, friend.
Wise counsel for every stage of life. Thanks, Joanne.
So much yes!! Amen
Seeking first God–casting aside worry–and doing your best right now – such good wisdom Joanne!
These are such great reminders for this Wednesday morning, Joanne! I actually had that devotional in my cart before I read your post, based on another recommendation. It looks like a good one!!
Such a wonderful devotional Joanne.
I often share similar with my daughters & remind myself that I did the very best I could with the knowledge & life experience I had at the time.
Blessings, Jennifer