What to Do When It Feels Like Life Has Passed You By

Have you ever looked back on your life and thought, If only I could get that time back? 

Maybe it feels like you’ve missed too many opportunities, taken too many wrong turns, or wasted years in indecision or fear.

You’re not alone. Been there. Done that.

So many of us wrestle with this feeling, wondering if it’s too late to fulfill the dreams God placed in our hearts.

The regret can be overwhelming, and the thought of “catching up” might seem impossible. But here’s the truth: God specializes in redemption.

It’s Not Too Late

The Bible tells us in Joel 2:25, “I will restore to you the years that the locust has eaten.”

Let that sink in. God can restore years—not just days or months, but entire seasons of life. The time you thought was wasted isn’t lost in His hands. He’s been working behind the scenes, preparing you for what’s next.

Your Past Doesn’t Disqualify You

The world might tell you that you’re “too late” to chase your dreams or fulfill your purpose. But God’s timeline looks very different from ours.

Look at Moses. He didn’t step into his calling until he was 80 years old!

Or Abraham, who became the father of nations long after most people would have given up hope.

If you feel like you’ve missed your chance, I want to encourage you: God can redeem the years you think you’ve lost.

Why We Feel Stuck

Before we dive into how to redeem lost time, let’s address why so many of us feel stuck in the first place:

1. Fear of Failure: We’re afraid to move forward because we’ve failed before.

2. Overwhelming Regret: We replay past mistakes in our minds, letting guilt hold us captive.

3. Indecision:Too many options or uncertainties about God’s will can paralyze us.

4. Lack of Clarity: We don’t know where to start, so we stay where we are.

Sound familiar?

How to Redeem Lost Time

Here’s the good news: God’s grace is greater than your past. You can step boldly into the life He’s calling you to live.

Here are three steps to start redeeming lost time today:

1. Surrender Your Past to God

You can’t change what’s already happened, but you can choose to release it to God.

• Pray for forgiveness (if needed) and for healing from regret.

• Trust that God’s plan for your life isn’t derailed by your mistakes.

Remember Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

2. Align Yourself with God’s Purpose

Take time to ask God what He wants you to do next.

• Spend time in prayer and scripture.

• Write down the dreams and desires that God has placed on your heart.

• Seek wise counsel from mentors or trusted friends who can provide guidance.

3. Take Action, One Step at a Time

The enemy would love for you to believe that it’s too late or that the task ahead is too big. But small, consistent steps lead to transformation.

• Identify one area where you can take action today, whether it’s pursuing a goal, mending a relationship, or starting a new habit.

• Trust God to multiply your efforts.

It’s Time to Redeem What’s Been Lost

Imagine looking back a year from now and realizing how far you’ve come—not because you did it alone, but because you partnered with God and stepped boldly into His plan.

You’ve got this, and more importantly, God’s got you.

I can’t wait to see what He’ll do in your life.

Let’s start this journey together.

If you need help getting clarity with your purpose, click here to book a time to chat.