-
Delete Or Repeat
Contributed by Loyd C. Taylor on Dec 27, 2022 (message contributor)
Delete or Repeat
Choosing What We Carry Forward
Picture your life as a computer desktop crowded with files. Each one represents a memory, a habit, a choice, or an experience.
Some files are useful and frequently opened. Others are outdated, damaged, or simply take up space—slowing everything down.
Every so often, a message appears on the screen: “Are you sure you want to delete this?”
You pause, knowing that once something is deleted, it’s gone for good. That moment of hesitation feels familiar, because life presents us with similar questions all the time.
There are things we know need to be removed. Persistent worries that reopen themselves every morning.
Patterns of procrastination that delay obedience. Old fears that keep us from stepping forward. Broken relationships and lingering regrets that clutter the heart.
Letting go is not easy, but holding on often costs us more than we realize.
With resolve, you drag those unwanted files to the recycle bin. The system asks again, “This action cannot be undone.”
You take a breath, whisper a prayer, and click delete. Suddenly, the screen feels lighter—ready for something better.
Now comes another choice: what will you keep repeating? Some files are worth copying and pasting every new day.
Faith in God and His love.
Trust in His goodness.
Following His commandments.
Acts of love and concern that reflect Christ to others.
All the above guide our decisions and protect our hearts. So, before sending anything out into the world, do a careful review—allowing the Holy Spirit to check our words, attitudes, and actions.
As believers, we are called not only to leave the past behind, but to carry forward what honors God.
Yesterday’s failures don’t have to define tomorrow, but yesterday’s lessons can strengthen it.
The question remains: Will you delete what holds you back—or repeat what draws you closer to Christ?
The Poem
Delete or Repeat
“Delete or repeat?” Two questions I face.
“Delete or repeat?” Both require God’s grace.
As I think of my yesterdays, can I let go of what I should?
When I live out my tomorrows, will I repeat only the good?
Delete or repeat? Two choices I see.
Delete or repeat? Which one will it be?
Will I learn from my past, then put it out of sight?
Will I plan for the future, to do what I know is right?
Delete or repeat? These choices face you.
Delete or repeat? Friend, what will you do?
Takeaway: Growth begins when we let go of what hinders us and intentionally repeat what honors God.
Scriptures: Isaiah 43:18–19; Philippians 3:13–14; Ephesians 4:22–24; Romans 12:1–2
Contributor: LC Taylor, Sr. (USA)
Check out more illustrations from my book, "That Reminds Me... by Loyd C Taylor, Sr. Amazon
Related Sermon Illustrations
-
The Star Of Bethlehem PRO
Contributed by Mitchell Skelton on Dec 2, 2003
THE STAR OF BETHLEHEM Bill Keane’s comic strip, Family Circus, has communicated a beautiful truth about Christmas. As the children were setting up their nativity set, little Dolly held up the baby Jesus and declared, “Here’s the ...read more
-
It Is That Kind Of Faith Which Would Lead A Man ...
Contributed by Jeff Simms on May 23, 2004
“It is that kind of faith which would lead a man to take a bottle of medicine from his medicine cabinet. Looking at the instructions on it, he says, I’m sure they’re correct. I have all confidence in the source of the medicine. I know who wrote these directions. I believe everything about it. ...read more
-
The African Impala Can Jump To A Height Of Over ... PRO
Contributed by Jeff Simms on May 23, 2004
The African impala can jump to a height of over 10 feet and cover a distance of greater than 30 feet. Yet these magnificent creatures can be kept in an enclosure in any zoo with a 3-foot wall. The animals will not jump if they cannot see where their feet will fall. Faith is the ability to trust ...read more
-
Charles Swindoll, In Growing Deep In The ...
Contributed by Stephen Boardman on Oct 20, 2002
Charles Swindoll, in Growing Deep in the Christian Life, tells about a man who bought fried chicken dinners for himself and his date late one afternoon. The attendant at the fast food outlet, however, inadvertently gave him the proceeds from the day’s business--a bucket of money (much of it cash) ...read more
-
Elephants Live Longer Than People, Maybe Because ... PRO
Contributed by Wilfred Mina on May 1, 2005
“Elephants live longer than people, maybe because they never worry about ...read more
Related Sermons
-
Youth Series
Contributed by Paul Basehore on Aug 13, 2014
You are not the future of the church. You are the present! Don’t wait until you’re adults to make a difference for the Kingdom of God. Do it now!
-
Something New In My Life Series
Contributed by Shine Thomas on Dec 20, 2023
Do you feel your life is just getting nowhere? You feel you are doing the same routine again and again, day after day.
-
Easter’s Life Changing Message
Contributed by Dennis Lee on Apr 14, 2019
This sermon looks at Easter and the resurrection of Jesus Christ and its life changing message that our sins are forgiven, we have a purpose to live out through the power and promises of Christ, and our eternal future is secured in heaven.
-
Plans To Prosper You Series
Contributed by Brian Bill on Jun 2, 2017
God will not always do what we desire but He will always do what He decides.
-
"Working Together In Our Walk Together” Series
Contributed by Dave Mcfadden on May 29, 2012
If we are to walk together in meaningful relationship, we must we willing to work together on agreed upon goals and objectives.
Sermon Central