Peripherals

I used to love going to the video arcade when I was much younger, long before the days of home entertainment systems. Since I was too young at the time to drive, I would sometimes play the driving games where you would sit in a make-shift car seat and race along a track against computerized players. It was fun zooming around a countryside or through a city, trying to maneuver around other cars. But the problem was that you couldn't see a car coming from behind or alongside until they were right up on you. You weren't given a peripheral view.

Although we often hear the phrase, "Don't look back" in reference to not dwelling on our past, we actually need the opportunity to see where we've been. Knowing our past helps us to see how much we've grown and how far we need to go. We also need to take a look around us to make sure we haven't sidetracked. And, knowing where we are helps us to be thankful for the direction God is taking us (that is, as long as we are asking Him to lead).

Take the time to check your peripherals. It may make you better focused for the long road ahead.