A choice that means the difference between peace and frustration

Recently I gave a talk on embracing change to a group of people facing some drastic transformations in their workplace. One of the points I made was the importance of living in the present.

Not long after that, I heard an old 60s song, “Let’s Live for Today” (you can find the lyrics online), and realized how this concept can be misunderstood.

The difference is in two small words: in and for.

In means a period of time or a place. For expresses a purpose or reason for something.

To live in the present means to release the past and not worry about the future. It means to keep the lessons you’ve learned but let go of the regrets. It means to plan and prepare, but not worry about what’s going to happen tomorrow.

It does not mean to live as though there is no tomorrow. It does not mean to live solely for personal pleasure and immediate gratification.

When you live in the present, you focus on the now without wasting time or energy on things you can’t change (the past) or control (the future). You live in obedience to God and trust him to take care of the future. You’re still aware of the future. You still set goals and make plans. But you don’t sacrifice the future for your immediate desires.

When you live for today, you have no regard for the consequences of your actions. You become your idol. You do what you want, when you want, because you can, without considering the impact on yourself or others. Living for today might feel good temporarily, but it’s a shallow pleasure.

For lasting peace and joy no matter the circumstances, live in the present not for today.

Jacquelyn Lynn
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