As I am preparing for our next women’s study at church (“Don’t Look Back” by Christine Caine) I have found myself really intrigued by the fact that I hadn’t paid attention to something that seems so obvious. Although Jesus said the woman who poured oil over him (Matthew 26:13) would be talked about forever, there’s only one woman in the Bible that Jesus specifically tells us we are to remember and it’s not Mary, Esther, or Ruth. It’s Lot’s wife.

“Remember Lot’s wife.” – Luke 17:32

Just one short sentence, but it’s packed with meaning.

Lot’s wife is mentioned only briefly in Genesis 19. As God was rescuing Lot and his family from the destruction of Sodom, they were told “Don’t look back.” But Lot’s wife did. She turned to look and instantly became a pillar of salt.

It’s a haunting image, and one that speaks volumes about the danger of looking backward when God is calling us forward.

Her glance wasn’t just curiosity. It was attachment. Her heart was still tied to a life God was delivering her from. While her feet were headed toward safety, her heart longed for what was behind. That split-second moment revealed divided loyalty, and it cost her everything.

Jesus referenced her in the context of being ready for His return. He was warning us: when the time comes to follow God, do it wholeheartedly. Don’t hesitate. Don’t cling to what He’s calling you to leave behind. Whether it’s sin, comfort, old ways, or even good things that aren’t God’s best for us. Looking back can be dangerous when God is moving us forward.

Lot’s wife reminds us that partial obedience is not obedience at all. God wants our whole hearts. I have found myself facing questions. As you all know, I am in this time of transition. I feel really good about that, especially after my week in Dubuque, but this study is a good one to check my heart. Here is what the Spirit has given me so far this week. Maybe some of you are wrestling with something similar.

• Are there things in your life God is calling you to leave behind?
• What are you looking back on that may be keeping you from moving forward?
• Do you trust that what God has ahead is better than what you’ve left behind?

I am starting this 5-week series at church next Tuesday evening. Anyone is welcome, please contact me to sign up and I’ll get you the information you need. I would also be willing to do another run of it in my home at another day and time. Just let me know a time that works for you.

I think so many of us struggle with the past and just neglect to let our faith replace anxiety, fear, or whatever else is getting in the way of believing God’s promises. We do have struggles in this life. This isn’t ignoring that. It’s just remembering that God has a purpose and a plan for each one of us. When we are living out that plan, we live in the joy that I talk about…not just temporary, fleeting happiness, but everlasting joy. If you just need other women to connect with, this is for you, too.

Consider coming to New Hope Fellowship in Rochelle on Tuesdays at 6:30 or tell me another time that works for you, and we’ll do it in Chana. Please, just let me know, either way. You can have the study guide by Friday from Amazon. 😉