Backwards

In a variation from planning ahead, some advocate “backward planning.” This involves identifying an ultimate goal, and then working backward to present action steps.

As ones who follow Christ, how might our daily patterns change if we were to approach life from a backwards perspective?

For example, as we “press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14), how will we embed this intention into our everyday practices?

With the aim to “nourish and cherish” our spouse to full potential in Christ—to be “without spot or wrinkle or any such thing . . . holy and without blemish” (Ephesians 5:27-29), how will we speak and act at home today?

How will we contribute now to the fulfillment of this promise: “The children of your servants shall dwell secure; their offspring shall be established before you” (Psalm 103:28)?

In what ways this week will we be “building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith . . . to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 3:12-13)?

In the workplace, neighborhood, and ballpark, day by day, how will we further God's "plan for the fulness of time, to unite all things in [Jesus Christ]" (Ephesians 1:10)?

There may be some benefit in approaching life backwards. With eternal purposes in mind, we can recalibrate our daily living, celebrate milestones along the way, and attain what we most want in life.

Also see August 1 post, "A Time to Heal."