Overcoming the “If Only” Mindset! Part Two

“For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth, and the former things shall not be remembered or come into mind.” Isaiah 65:17

When we live with an “if only” mindset, we constantly look back at what we could have done differently. We dwell on our past mistakes and allow them to control our present and future. This can be dangerous because it prevents us from living in the present moment and enjoying all life offers. It also keeps us from moving forward and learning from our mistakes. If we want to live a happy and fulfilling life, we must let go of the “if only” mindset and focus on the present moment.

So how do we overcome an “if only” mindset? First, what if instead of saying “if only,” we said, “I am grateful for”? It may not be what we want it to be, but we can not allow ourselves to be stuck in the past because if we’re not careful, the “if only” mindset can become a permanent way of thinking. And doing so can prevent us from enjoying the present moment and make us feel like we’re living in the past, which creates a pathway of regret, disappointment, and frustration, so if you find yourself frequently thinking, “if only,” be grateful for what you do have. But, at the same time, continue to strive for something better.

Philippians 3:12 says, “Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own because Christ Jesus has made me his own.”

Secondly, we need to recognize that our current situation is not permanent. Just because we don’t have what we want right now doesn’t mean we never will. Remember, if you keep thinking of “If only” I hadn’t made that one mistake, or If only I were better looking. You will continue to wallow in self-pity in the same place and feel sorry for yourselves. So, please avoid falling into such a trap because it does not help you to be productive or help you live a happy life.

So, Brethren, I encourage you to recognize what you have and be grateful for it because it will change your entire outlook on life. When you are thankful, you will realize that your current situation is not permanent. You may not have everything you want, but you can be thankful for what you have. Being grateful also allows us to see the good in people and situations. It is easy to focus on the negative, but when we are thankful, we can find the positive in even the most difficult circumstances. Ephesians 2:8 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.”

Prayer:
Thank you, God, for loving me with a better plan. Holy Spirit freed me from the prison of past mistakes and helped me find joy and contentment in Christ Jesus. Amen.