Tuesday, March 9, 2010

perspective

I've been mulling over one of those hypothetical questions—the kind that serves absolutely no purpose other than to make me think. Here's what it is: If I could change one thing about myself, what would it be? I'm not willing to commit to a lifetime answer, but for now, I think I have settled on something. I would change my persistent short-sightedness. My mindset that seems to autopilot back to relying on my very human, very flawed perspective, instead of God's.

I've been trying to think about all of the things that would be different in my life if I could always see the big picture without the concerns of the small scene crowding out my vision, and I think I've pretty much decided that it would all be different. Every single little aspect of my life. How would I spend money if I always had God's eternal perspective in mind? How would spend my time? How would I use my talents? How would I treat those around me?

Differently. I'm convinced of that. So many of the things I do are done before they are ever put through that final filter of eternal perspective. In fact, if I really had it right, that wouldn't be the final filter, but the first. Keeping my thoughts focused on the big picture, what am I really here for setting is something I know would radically change the way I did things. It is a simple concept, but for me at least, unbelievably difficult to put into practice all of the time. The reason for that probably has something to do with the fact that it doesn't just happen on its own, even if it's something I wish did. Instead it takes focus. Prayer. Commitment. A daily effort and decision to choose to see things in light of eternity instead of the light of today.

It's something I want, and it's something I know I need. Some things may be out of our control to change in our lives, but this is not one of those things. Every day, for the rest of my life, it can be something I strive for, and hopefully get closer and closer to attaining, until finally, one day, I am face to face with Him and there will no longer be a need for it.

4 comments:

Tori said...

I love this. And you're so right... how different every little thing could be! Thanks for blessing my morning!

Adam & Amy Wilson said...

Good Word, Angie. You've been on my mind so much lately-- not sure why, but it always ends in prayer for you. (maybe it just means I need to see you!:))

Laurie in Ca. said...

I couldn't agree with you more Angie. My life would be so different too if I would keep my perspective in focus. Thank you for these words of wisdom today. I love you girl. I hope Marianna's arm is healing perfectly.

Love and Hugs, Laurie

sarahdodson said...

"So many of the things I do are done before they are ever put through that final filter of eternal perspective. In fact, if I really had it right, that wouldn't be the final filter, but the first."

Excellent!!