Last evening I was at a meeting at church with a wonderful couple who recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. I asked them “What changes would you make if you were starting out again?” They had very few changes to make so I asked them, “What advice would you give to younger people?” They offered sage advice that as I reflected upon it later that evening it reminded me of a study I had read. A survey of people 95 years and older were asked: “If you could live your life over what would you do differently?” Here is a summary of their responses:

1. I would take more time for reflection.
In our hectic, fast-paced world that is welcome advice. How much time do you take to reflect upon your life: where are you going and why do you do what you do? Too many people confuse activity with accomplishment. Sure you may be busy but if you’re not investing your time wisely you may be rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic – they may look nice but what does it matter? It’s true that efficiency is doing things right and effectiveness is doing the right thing – reflection helps you to ensure you’re doing the right thing.

2. I would take more risks.
Helen Keller said it well, “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.” Nothing great was ever accomplished without taking a risk. I think of God’s words to Joshua as he is about to enter the promised land, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9) Did you notice the reason why Joshua could move out in confidence? God had commanded him and God was with him! That same promise is available to His people today, “I WILL NEVER DESERT YOU, NOR WILL I EVER FORSAKE YOU,” so that we confidently say, “THE LORD IS MY HELPER, I WILL NOT BE AFRAID. WHAT WILL MAN DO TO ME?” (Hebrews 13:5b-6)

3. I would do things that will outlast me.
These people wanted to leave a legacy. When do you start planning to leave a legacy – NOW! How do you want to be remembered when you come to the end of your life? As one of my mentors, Stephen Olford, used to say, “This one life will soon be past but only what’s done for Christ will last!” The reality is if you take time for reflection to ensure you’re doing the right thing and step out in courage your legacy will take care of itself.

What changes would you make if you were to live your life over?