And all you’ll be left with are… regrets!

I wonder if you, like me, have thoughts when looking back on your life such as “If only I had done this or that, I would not now be left with only regrets.” I have found that there are certain actions, or lack of action, that produce only regrets. And though this outcome is certainly not by design, it is inevitable when we live the “I should” way instead of the “I will” way—you know, like “I should apologize,” but I don’t. Result: regrets, as the relationship goes to pot and the marriage breaks up. Or maybe you recognize these:

• “I should take some night courses,” so I can get that desirable promotion—but I don’t. Result: regrets, as the promotion goes to someone else.
• “I should be less critical and more supportive,” but I don’t.
  Result: regrets, as my colleagues at work avoid me more and more.
• “I should set myself some specific goals,” but I don’t, so I continue to drift.
  Result: regrets, as my friends continue to advance, leaving me behind.

For the Christian in the workplace, an “I should” lifestyle is in direct conflict with his or her professed value system. Just look at the Ten Commandments: they’re not the Ten Suggestions or the Ten Recommendations. The person living a successful Christian life lives the “I will and I shall” way: I will obey your commands, Lord, and with your help I’ll succeed.

To avoid being left with nothing but regrets, adopt the “I will and I shall” lifestyle, and you’ll experience the blessing of success that results. 

Don’t excuse yourself by saying, “Look, we didn’t know.” For God understands all hearts, and he sees you. He who guards your soul knows you knew. He will repay all people as their actions deserve. —Proverbs 24:12