“A man’s gift makes room for him, and brings him before great men.” (Proverbs 18:16 NKJV)
“So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor.” (1 Peter 5:6 NLT)
“All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.” (Proverbs 14:23 NIV)
The year is 1976-77.
The place is Napoleon High School.
The setting is Debate Club.
Who would have known just how much satisfaction could come from being argumentative? I have always enjoyed the art of communication (especially talking) so when I found that I could take a class called “debate” I was thrilled. I was already spending many wonderful hours in the practice rooms of Napoleon High School developing my musical abilities. Now I was given the opportunity to see just how far I could take my “gift of gab.”
Well, after learning the basics of academic debate, and doing the “library time” to gather my evidence and build my case, I was off to the Jackson County Speech League. My partners and I took first place. WE also either won or placed at a number of other tournaments. Finally, it was time for the State Championship. You guessed it, we won!
I have such great memories from these accolades of the past. However, as wonderful as it is to have special memories of past achievements, how sad it is when someone gets stuck in the “Glory Days” of the past. The Apostle Paul knew just how dangerous living in the past could be to moving into the future which is why he wrote that he made the effort to “forget” the things which were behind.
I have heard it said that there is a reason that the front windshield of a car is so much larger than the rearview mirror. I will never get anywhere by constantly looking behind me. Looking back on milestones in order to motivate myself for today is a good thing. Looking back on past mistakes, failures, and hardships in order to learn the lessons needed to enhance my life today is valuable. But living a life fixated on the past in such a way that it hinders my life today, and limits my tomorrow, is an unhealthy way to live.
I thank God often for the talents and gifts that he has given me. I enjoy reminiscing about the great experiences and accomplishments that those gifts and talents have provided. Looking back from time to time brings encouragement and motivation. However the best thing about “Life’s Glory Days” is knowing that they were just the tip of the iceberg. I know that the best is yet to come! Future Glory will far outshine even the brightest Glory of the past!