Years ago at a conference, I heard someone say what he wants on his tombstone is ‘He lived a life of no regrets.’ That statement struck me and shaped my pursuit. Since then, I determined to live intentionally so in the end, I would look back with gratitude, not sorrow or regret before God.
Friend, your life will either serve as a warning or as an encouragement to others (Acts 1:16-20). This does not happen by prayer alone; it requires intentional living daily. Don’t live without considering how your decisions affect others, especially future generations (Hebrews 7:9-10).
Living without regrets begins with integrity (Acts 24:16). Integrity is doing what you can be proud of anytime and before any audience. It is living in private what you profess in public. It means having no hidden cupboard, let alone skeletons. Never do today what you will be ashamed of tomorrow before God and men (2 Samuel 11:1-5).
It also means maximizing every phase of your life to get the best from it (Ephesians 5:16). Life is in phases, and men are in sizes. Fulfilment comes from living each phase purposefully and fully. As a single, live purposefully rather than peeping into marriage (Daniel 1:8). As a student, maximize campus opportunities diligently daily.
Living without regrets means refusing to be trapped by regrets. Some regret every mistake until regret becomes guilt that paralyses them. God does not want mere regret; He wants repentance (2 Corinthians 7:10). You can regret it without repenting. Decide to move forward regardless of past failures. Don’t let guilt finish you (Micah 7:8).
In eternity, two realities await everyone before God: a crown or a cry; results or regrets (2 Timothy 4:8). This is why God will wipe away tears from some people’s eyes in heaven. Determine to receive your crown and present results to God, not regrets. It all
depends on today’s decisions (Acts 20:24). Mind today what will matter tomorrow.
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria
