The Power of Perspective

I can tend to focus on the negative things and the “what if’s” of life. I can easily get frustrated and annoyed over things that aren’t that serious. I always expect the worst case scenario to happen when chances are it won’t, but even if it did - I am learning to understand it is all a part of God’s purpose.

A shift in perspective can change your way of living, especially when you put God’s plan at the root of it.

When I was a senior in high school I got in a car wreck and it was my fault. Thankfully no one in either vehicle was hurt, yet it was a hard time for me because I felt guilty about all of the possible worse outcomes. During that time I learned that God really does have a plan and purpose for everything. Instead of focusing on what could have happened, I needed to change my perspective to what God protected me from and the lessons he was teaching me in that season of my life. 

2 Corinthians 4:18

“For we do not look at the things which are seen, but the things that are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.”

I know how easy it can be in the heat of the moment to get frustrated about the smallest things. For example, like running late somewhere, missing your exit when you're just ready to get to your next destination, getting cut off in traffic, getting behind a slow driver when you’re in a hurry or if plans you were looking forward to get canceled at the last minute. The next time something like that happens, take a second to breathe and think “What could God’s purpose for this be?”

God sees things we don’t see, hears conversations we don't hear, and knows what's going on in other peoples lives that we have no idea about. I saw this video once that said maybe the slow driver in front of you is protecting a birthday cake, or the person who cut you off in traffic is in a hurry to get to a loved one. In the same way, God has a reason for even the smallest details of our life. You don't know what God could be protecting you from by running late or just missing your exit. 

Proverbs 3:5-6

“Trust in the Lord with all of your heart, and lean not on your own understanding: In all ways acknowledge Him, and he shall direct your paths.”

Sometimes we see God’s purpose in the moment, or a long time later. Most times we don’t even know what He is protecting us from.

Prayer Tip #17 - Pray for a shift in perspective.

• Lord, help me lean on You, for not my own understanding but Yours.

• Lord, thank You for protecting me from all things seen and unseen.

• Lord, give me the patience to not get easily frustrated.

• Lord, give me the confidence in trusting Your plan in everything.

Suggested Prayer –

Dear Lord, 

Thank You for everything You do for me and allowing me to live the life I live. I know You have a purpose in everything You do for me. Give me the patience, guidance and will to have a more positive perspective and to think of You in every little moment. I thank You for everything You have protected me from and will continue to protect me from. I pray that in the hard moments and the good ones that I will rely on Your strength and purpose for me. 

In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen

With Gratitude,

Lyndsy Windham