Listen

Then the people answered, “God forbid that we ever leave the Lord to serve other gods! The Lord is our God. He is the one who brought us and our ancestors up from the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage. He has done these mighty signs in our sight. He has protected us the whole way we’ve gone and in all the nations through which we’ve passed.”

Joshua 24:16-17

Think

When Joshua asks the Israelites whom they will serve, the community responds with a story. They remember where they’ve been, what they’ve survived, and God’s faithful presence through all of it. This testimony becomes part of how they decide what comes next.

When we’re facing hardship or uncertainty, it’s easy to act as though we’ve arrived at the present moment empty-handed. But wisdom remembers that we’ve already learned things about ourselves. We’ve made mistakes and survived them. We’ve experienced love, grace, courage, and unexpected help. We’ve discovered what brings us life and what doesn’t.

Wisdom doesn’t just care for our future; it learns from our past. It invites us to look backward with curiosity, scouring our journey for signs of God’s goodness. The past doesn’t dictate our future, but it can help us recognize the paths we’ve traveled before.

When you aren’t sure which way to go, look back at the road that brought you here.

Holle Tubbs

Question to Ponder:

When you look back on your life, what have past experiences taught you that can help you make wise choices now?

Pray

God of wisdom, help me notice your voice, trust your love, and choose the path that leads to life. Amen.

Go

Wisdom grows every time we pause, listen, and choose love.