THREE ACTIONS I. Introduction. A. It is often good to stop and think for a few minutes. B. Or--meditate. C. There are three important actions to consider. II. Body. A. Good to look backward; contemplate the past. 1. Even the Hebrews were taught this: Deuteronomy 32:7. 2. And Job: Job 8:8. 3. Lessons of the past are many(experience a ood teacher). 4. A study of history is looking back; yea--a study of the Bible. 5. Consider what Israel was to remember: a. When a slave: Deuteronomy 24:18. b. The Sabbath: Exodus 20:8. c. Feast: Exodus 12:14. 6. You can consider the past; you can only think the future. 7. The New Testament reveals items Christians are to remember: a. When in bondage of sin: Ephesians 2:11-12. b. When fall: Revelation 2:5. c. Lord's Supper: I Corinthians 11:25. 8. Proper to review the gospel; review one's life, etc. 9. It is sometimes not good to look back: Luke 17:32. B. One can look within: Self-examination; self- appraisal; taking stock. 1. It is proper to estimate one's strengths and weaknesses(mental; habits, etc.). 2. A requirement of the gospel:II John 8; II Corinthians 13:5. 3. Looking within is often a rare occurrence. a. Ever wondered what soul would look like as a photo? b. Would we show it to our friends? 4. "Oh wad some power the giftie gie us To see oursels as others see us! It wad frae monie a blunder free us, An' foolish notion." -Robert Burns 5. How does one look within? James 1:23-25. C. One should look ahead(looking forward). 1. Lingering too long in the past can create a desire to return. 2. Israel and flesh pots: Exodus 16:3. 3. Lot's wife. 4. Jesus said: Luke 9:62. 5. Purpose and planning a part of the life of a Christian. a. Necessary to success in any worthwhile venture. b. Individuals should have plans for futures. c. Congregations should plan for future. III. Conclusion. A. Consider these passages: 1. Philippians 3:13-14. 2. II Timothy 4:7-8. 3. II Corinthians 4:18.-jy