Do not love the world nor the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 1 John 2:15 NASB
Confession time: I love my stuff! While I didn’t grow up dirt poor, we did without a lot of things. The things we did have, had to stretch and last. We had a garden to grow food. Clothes would be worn until we outgrew them or they wore out. Often, shoes were re-soled to last a few more years.
Because of this, I enjoy the fact that I am able to have stuff. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t idolize it! I’m thankful that all I have is from God (James 1:17). I am thankful that He has blessed me and I’m able to buy all sorts of stuff.
Sometimes, having so much can make us a little too comfortable. Take my home, for instance. It’s my happy place; my safe spot, full of peace. I am content when I am home. All my stuff is here. I have all I need.
But, am I so satisfied being in my little world, that I forget heaven is my true home?
Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. Colossians 3:2 NLT
Photography (yep, I have camera stuff too!) has taught me a bit about seeking the things above. I love to take macro photos – very close up shots. I love the detail of the flowers, or the or the way a tree’s bark seems to tell a story. Even the fascinating dot patterns on a lady bug capture my attention.
Zeroing in so closely on each and every detail, causes me to miss the big picture. That beautiful yellow flower? There is a whole field of them that I didn’t see, because I didn’t look up.
Life is like that too. Focusing on the doodlebugs of our circumstances, instead of the One who controls all circumstances, keeps our eyes on the problems, not the Problem Solver.
How can we keep a heavenly perspective? Change our perspective! See things through the lens of Christ’s perspective. Choose to be thankful, even when life is heartbreaking. See the blessing, instead of the burden.
Look up.
Why? Because that’s where Jesus is, seated at the right hand of the Father (turn your eyes upon Jesus).
Focus on Jesus, not your circumstances (look full in His wonderful face).
Practice having a heavenly perspective (and the things of earth will grow strangely dim).
In all things, be thankful (in the light of His glory and grace).
Turn your eyes on Jesus:
In the good: thank Him!
In the bad: praise Him!
In the ugly: cling to Him!
Grace be with you,
Clearly stated. Beautiful Pic. Great inspiration to change focus. Got it.
Smiles, BRC
Thanks Beth! I’m so glad this post inspired you. Sometimes changing our focus to Christ’s perspective is a hard lesson, amen??