“Seize the Day: Not What If, Choose What Now, What Next” by Patricia A. Hudson, M.S.

Summary of Patricia A. Hudson’s message

“Seize the Day: Not What If, Choose What Now, What Next”

Introduction and Context

Patricia opened by explaining how the message arose from her reflections after retiring in May 2022, following 42 years as a classroom teacher. She described the sadness, uncertainty, and self-doubt that came with leaving a meaningful career—wondering if she had done enough, questioning paths not taken (such as becoming an administrator), and missing the validation that came with being a master teacher.

Through prayer, journaling, and devotion, she received the phrase: “Not what if, what now, what next.” This became her guiding principle for moving forward with peace, purpose, and renewed focus.

Theme: Moving Beyond “What If”

• “What if” thinking reflects regret and focuses on missed opportunities or untaken paths. It breeds doubt and prevents progress.
• Patricia realized she could not dwell on the past but instead needed to embrace the present (what now) and prepare for the future (what next).
• She reframed her life’s work: mentoring students, training teachers, and serving in Christian education as a completed season of calling that now prepares her for the next chapter.

Honoring Her Pastor

Patricia honored Dr. Bryan Hudson, her husband and pastor, highlighting the grace and dedication of pastors who faithfully teach and lead while balancing life’s responsibilities. She credited his consistent teaching of God’s Word as foundational for her spiritual growth and for her ability to stand and minister.

Seize the Day: Biblical & Practical Insights

Patricia unpacked the phrase “Seize the Day” (Carpe Diem):

• To take opportunity eagerly and decisively.
• To embrace the present moment instead of postponing or worrying about tomorrow.

She identified four keys to cultivating a seize-the-day mindset:

1. Focus on the present instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.
2. Take action on opportunities today.
3. Prioritize purposeful living aligned with God’s calling.
4. Embrace new experiences that bring fulfillment.

Scripture emphasized these truths:

• Psalm 118:24 – “This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”
• Lamentations 3:22–23 – God’s mercies are new every morning.
• Matthew 6:31–34 – Do not worry about tomorrow; focus on God’s provision today.

Using the Past Without Being Trapped by It

Patricia explained that the past can serve two healthy purposes:

• Informing us of God’s faithfulness.
• Correcting our thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors.

She shared a humorous and nostalgic family story about “Lucky,” their childhood dog, showing how past experiences can also provide joy, bonding, and spiritual insight about God’s fatherly love.

But she warned against allowing negative past experiences to dominate, creating regret and emotional “drama.” Forgiveness and God’s wisdom are essential to move forward into peace and purpose.

Biblical Case Studies

Patricia drew on two biblical examples:

1. Joseph (Genesis 37–50): Betrayed by brothers, sold into slavery, and imprisoned, yet he shifted from “what if” to “what now, what next”. His resilience positioned him to save nations during famine.
2. Paul (New Testament letters): Imprisoned for preaching the gospel, Paul didn’t dwell on “what if” but wrote letters that continue to strengthen believers today.

Both men turned adversity into purposeful action, modeling how God works through despair to fulfill divine purpose.

Application: Choosing What Now and What Next

• What Now: Live fully in the present, trusting God’s provision for today.
• What Next: Plan for the future, but rest in God’s guidance (Proverbs 3:5–6, Isaiah 30:21).
• God knows each twist and turn; His mercy and wisdom equip us daily.
• Seizing the day includes balance: purposeful living, joy, play, rest, and even celebration.

Closing Exhortation

Patricia concluded with encouragement:

• “Give today. Love today. Rejoice today.”
• Life is purposeful but also joyful—embrace both responsibility and enjoyment.
• Trust God’s faithfulness, walk in His direction, and share His goodness with others.

She ended with a prayer of thanksgiving, urging listeners to reject the paralysis of “what if,” and instead embrace the freedom of “what now, what next.”

Core Message in One Sentence: Don’t be trapped by regrets of the past or anxieties about the future—seize today with gratitude, live purposefully in the present, and trust God for what comes next.