I Told You So
It was the smile of an older sister who knew she was wiser
Reference: He said to them, “This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.” (Luke 24:44 NIV)
Explore: Ten years ago I did my first major overseas trip. Since then I have travelled quite extensively, but back then I still questioned what I should pack in preparation for my time away.
My mum just told me to lay all the clothes I planned to take out on my bed and then pack half of it. Advice I have never taken!
My sister was a little more practical. She analysed every piece of clothing to gauge whether it would handle the hot, humid environment I was travelling to.
Her strategy seemed quite extreme so after she was gone I slipped a couple of unapproved garments into my suitcase.
However, once I landed overseas and experienced the blanket of wet heat, I understood her insistence on breathable clothing!
Upon my return I confessed my folly and my sister said nothing, she just smirked. It was the smile of an older sister who knew she was wiser and she was just glad I had finally realised that too!
Application: We all hate those “I told you so” moments and yet they help us to learn and grow. They teach us to listen to others and to be open to further teaching.
When Jesus rose from the dead, He met with His disciples and they all stood there shocked. Jesus’ response: I told you!
But Jesus didn’t stay in that potentially smug moment, He went on to open the scriptures in such a way that their eyes were opened to the fullness of God’s plan. He had every right to chastise His unbelieving disciples but instead He took the opportunity to teach them more about God’s grace.
There is no doubt that as we get older and follow God’s wisdom, we will have “I told you so” moments. May we be more like Christ and take the opportunity to teach rather than gloat.
Prayer: Lord, you are far wiser than we will ever be. May we learn from You so we can also instruct others. Amen.
How have you responded to an “I told you so” moment?
This article was written by Linda Bailey
Linda started theological studies in 1999 in Australia. After working for ten years in various church ministries, she now works as the breakfast producer at 89.9 LightFM - the Christian radio station in Melbourne, Australia. She writes blogs every day about passages she is currently reading in the Bible. Follow her on Google Plus +Linda Bailey or Facebook by clicking the like button on the right of this page.