During a recent appointment, I had a chance to speak with a doctor I knew through work several years ago. He has moved on and forged a successful career in a specialized field of medicine. It was great to catch up with him. While we talked, I asked if he ever missed his old career. He replied that it had been fine, but “no, I never look backward.” I agreed that it was better to look forward.

Our brief discussion reminded me of a verse that holds great meaning to me. I discovered it in a book entitled Discover the Power Within You by Eric Butterworth, who served as a minister, an author, and radio personality for many years. The verse that caught my eye–from the KJV Bible, Luke 9:62–reads as follows: And Jesus said unto him, no man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God. What could that possibly mean? I won’t pretend to be a religious authority, so I’d rather share Eric Butterworth’s interpretation of the verse, which may otherwise seem nonsensical.

The Bible–I am told–often communicates in parables that relate a figurative, rather than literal, meaning. According to Mr. Butterworth, a plough symbolizes the breaking of new ground or new life. If we desire to harvest a new crop, is it not true that we must first prepare the ground for new seed? Further: A man looking backward refers to someone who is focused on the past. And what could the phrase about being fit for the kingdom of God mean? That a person is not ready–or yet capable–of expressing a grander state of consciousness. Consider this for a few moments, if you will.

If we’re focused on the past while trying to move forward, are we not sabotaging our efforts? To create effectively, we must ensure that focus and effort operate in unison. The wisdom in this bible verse crosses every aspect of the human condition. Many of us have experienced difficult situations–in our health, relationships, finances, and careers. Think about the mixed and confusing messages we’re sending the Universe if we have our hand to the plough while looking backward. In effect, we’re saying this: “I’d love to have a wonderful new relationship, but look at my track record! I started two businesses in the past, but both of them failed miserably! I’d like to have great health, but I’ve experienced so much illness!” Does this passage now make sense?

The Law of Attraction teachings are worthless if not logical, practical, and usable. This verse, at least in my opinion, offers sound advice that can help us achieve real results! Our goals–whatever they may be–cannot be achieved by relentlessly looking back. We may learn from our past, of course; but we should never let it define our future. That’s worth remembering the next time we put our hand to the plough.

Dare to dream (and care for one another).

With heartfelt regards,

Art

Copyright © – 2020 – R. Arthur Russell

P.S. Please share this article if you enjoyed it. If you’d like to view my latest book (This Taste of Flesh and Bones–released September 8, 2020), press here. May it help you in your spiritual journey. 🙏🙏

“Thank You” & “Note to Publishers”