Everything we do has a side effect.Even the most fun things have a few issues. One of my earliest fishing trips was with a cousin and her then boyfriend. I was about 8 and she was probably 16. I was so very shy but I managed to ask to ride with them to the pond. She said okay, but watch out for the hook in the fishing pole. Of course you know, I got that hook hooked in my shorts. And she had to get it loose from the cloth. I was both exhilarated and embarrassed. Still it is one of my favorite memories of childhood with cousins. It was worth it!
Oh beloved, stop waiting till everything goes perfect to get started. Go ahead and reach for that fun thing. You’re not too old or too young. And don’t rehearse what might happen. It might happen, but who cares? A hook in the leg of my shorts didn’t change the joy of the memory. And you can have your joyful memory if you don’t waste time worrying about what might happen. God created you for joyful living and unless you are suffering for the cause of Christ, you’re just living life and encountering life along the way.
God loves you and He is for you. Memories are meant to comfort not trouble you. Run to the Lord and ask Him to redeem the time for you. Give Him the regrets. And live in the Light of joyful encounters for your life in Christ!
Nehemiah 8.10b …for the joy of the LORD is your strength.
Psalm 4.7 You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound.
Psalm 16.11 You make known to me the path of life; in Your presence there is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
Isaiah 12.3 With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.