One of the most crippling causes of mediocrity in our life generally is a condition that is called rear-view mirror syndrome (RMS). Our subconscious minds are equipped with a self-limiting rear-view mirror, through which we continuously relive and recreate our past. We mistakenly believe that who we were is who we are, thus limiting our true potential in the present, based on the limitations of our past.

Like old, worn baggage, we carry stress, fear, and worry from yesterday with us into today. When presented with opportunities, we quickly check our rear-view mirror to assess our past capabilities. ‘No, I’ve never done anything like that before. I’ve never achieved that level. In fact, I’ve failed, time and time again.’

But again and again the scriptures have proved to us that God is not a God of the past. He is not a God of the future. He is a God of the present moment. If we are to enter into a relationship with God, then we must realize that we can only encounter Him in the present moment. He is the Here and Now, so to speak. And we must seek Him here and now, in this present moment alone.

Sometimes we find ourselves dwelling on the past. To the extent that our past has helped or hurt us in this present moment, we need to address it. But the way this is done is by seeking God’s healing grace today, allowing the past to disappear into His abundant mercy. Other times we try to live in the future, becoming anxious about what is to come. But God does not dwell in the future for, to Him, all time is here and now. Therefore, we ought not to become anxious about the future, worry about it or try to live in it now. All we have is this present moment, and it is in this moment that God comes to meet us. He is here, and we must meet Him here, turning to Him and His grace today.

Allow the past to serve you. Don’t let it rob you of your now. Don’t let it steal your future. Delve into it occasionally to learn more about yourself, but avoid lingering there for too long. If you sense you may be lingering in the past in an unhealthy way, ask yourself, how is this serving me? 

Then in confidence 

1. Pray 
2. Hope 
3. Don’t worry for worry is useless in your life