The Source of Regret

The Source of Regret

Regret is something many of us experience, but much of it could be avoided if we understood that God’s laws are not meant to restrict us from enjoying life. Instead, they are designed to protect us, allowing us to live without regret and fear. We often find ourselves wishing we could go back and fix our mistakes, but this wouldn’t be necessary if we followed God’s commands in the first place. As I read through the Bible, I’ve noticed that most attempts to undo wrongs stem from ignoring God’s guidance in the beginning. This is why we must be cautious in how we interpret Scripture. Many actions people take are not in line with God’s will, even when they claim otherwise. God has already given us everything we need and clearly outlined what we should do. Yet, human nature tends toward rebellion.

The Purpose of God’s Laws
Following the laws and commands of a king is meant for the benefit of his people. The laws are put in place to protect, guide, and keep enemies out of the kingdom. This is exactly what God has done for us. His Word is a set of guidelines for living effectively in His kingdom so that we can experience life to the fullest — without regret and without fear.

What if We Followed God’s Commandments?
What would happen if you and I actually chose to follow God and walk in His ways? The Bible offers a clear answer. Take the example of Joshua. After Moses died, God instructed Joshua to lead the Israelites, and this is what He promised:

“Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon, I have given you… No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life… Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
— Joshua 1:1–9

The Bible is filled with stories of kings and people who prospered when they followed God’s commands. Their success wasn’t because they were flawless; it was because they trusted and obeyed God.

A Lesson from Ezra
Consider the Israelites during the time of Ezra. They had taken pagan wives, directly disobeying God’s command. Eventually, they had to put these wives and children away to realign with God’s law. All of this hardship could have been avoided if they had simply obeyed from the start (Ezra 10:2–3).

In the same way, many of the regrets and painful experiences we face today could be avoided if we walked in obedience to God. Poverty, sickness, and other forms of suffering are often consequences of choosing our own way over God’s way, much like what happened in the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve disobeyed God (Genesis 3:1).

The Consequences of Disobedience
Whenever we choose against God, we are automatically choosing the devil’s way — there’s no middle ground. Life is not a rehearsal; we don’t get do-overs. As Scripture tells us, “It is appointed for men to die once, but after this, the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27). At the end of our lives, we will either live with God or be separated from Him for eternity.

The Power of Obedience
There’s a common saying in the personal development world: “Everything you want is on the other side of your comfort zone,” which is true. However, the other side of your comfort zone doesn’t necessarily mean it’s your purpose zone or the right thing. So, I’d like to add this to that saying:

“Everything you need and want is on the other side of your obedience to the laws and principles of the King and His kingdom.”

Going outside your comfort zone but walking in disobedience is just another comfort zone — the zone of rebellion and total disregard for the King and His constitution.

You must choose this day whom you will serve. For you cannot serve two masters. You can either

serve and obey one, but not both. God has placed before you life and death. The choice is yours.
(Joshua 24:15; Deuteronomy 30:19–20)

The Benefits of Obedience
You might ask, “What’s the benefit of following God?” Scripture answers this question clearly. In Joshua 1:1–9, we see several promises to those who walk according to God’s ways:

1. Every place you set foot will be given to you.

2. No one will be able to stand against you.

3. God will be with you and will never leave you.

4. You will prosper and have good success.

5. All your needs will be taken care of.

This isn’t just about stepping out of your comfort zone; it’s about stepping into obedience. Disobedience is just another form of comfort zone — one rooted in rebellion against God’s kingdom and His laws.

Choose Whom You Will Serve
The choice is yours: whom will you serve? As the Bible says, “You cannot serve two masters” (Matthew 6:24). You must choose either to follow God or to go your own way. I urge you to consider aligning your life with God’s ways right now. Tomorrow is not promised, and the only sure path to success, peace, and freedom from regret is through obedience to God.

Hope for the Present
Maybe life isn’t working out for you right now. Maybe you’re facing the consequences of past decisions, or perhaps you’ve gained success but feel empty inside. You might even be regretting choices that seemed right at the time but now weigh heavily on your heart. I want to tell you that there is still hope.

Christ came to restore us to our rightful place of power and authority. The Bible says:

“If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved… Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.”
— Romans 10:9–11

The first step toward a life without regret is restoring your broken relationship with God, and this can only be done through Christ. No one else — not family, friends, or any prophet — can do this for you. Only God, through Jesus, offers this restoration.

Conclusion
Avoiding regret begins with choosing God. You wouldn’t have to look back with sorrow if you had listened to Him from the start. Whether you’re currently struggling, regretting past decisions, or even experiencing success, true peace and fulfillment come from aligning with God’s will.

Choose today whom you will serve. Choose life, and live free from regret.