A Different Perpective

In the  midst of life’s trials and tribulations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and discouraged. Often, when we take a closer look at our circumstances or dwell on our failures, we find ourselves trapped in what can be described as the “Angle of Depression.” But there’s another perspective, a better perspective, known as the “Angle of Elevation.” Just like in math, where these two angles are identical, it’s not the angle that changes but where we choose to focus our gaze.

Recently a parent gifted me with a book called “God Hears Her” by The Daily Bread. Today, I read the page from Julie Ackerman Link’s “From Bad to Worse.” The story of Moses and the Israelites in the Bible offers a moving reminder that obedience to God does not guarantee a smooth, trouble-free path. We see how Moses, obedient to God’s call, faced increasing challenges and hardships when he went to Pharaoh to speak on behalf of the Israelites. Sometimes, obeying God leads us through difficult and trying circumstances. It may seem like things are getting worse before they get better.

The Angle of Depression: When we focus solely on our circumstances, our failures, or our shortcomings, we are looking at life from the Angle of Depression. This perspective can be disheartening and debilitating. It’s like staring down into a deep, dark pit of despair. We see only the challenges, the obstacles, and the pain. In this state, we might question God’s plan and wonder if our obedience was in vain.

The Angle of Elevation: On the other hand, there’s the Angle of Elevation. This perspective is about looking up to God, even in the face of adversity. It’s an act of faith and trust, acknowledging that God is in control, no matter how bleak things may appear. When we turn our gaze upward, we find hope, strength, and a source of unwavering support. It’s a posture of surrender and dependence on the Almighty.

In life, we have a choice between these two angles. Satan often tempts us to focus on the Angle of Depression, which cripples us and paralyzes our ministry. It magnifies our fears and insecurities, preventing us from fulfilling God’s call on our lives. However, choosing the Angle of Elevation empowers us to rise above our circumstances, enabling us to complete all that God has asked of us. From God’s perspective, our failures and shortcomings are not obstacles; they are opportunities. He can use them to glorify Himself and to shape us into the people He wants us to become. When we cry out to Him from the Angle of Elevation, He hears us and responds. He lifts our spirits out of despair and into His presence, where we find comfort, guidance, and the strength to overcome.

In a world that often seems filled with challenges and disappointments, it’s crucial to remember that our perspective matters. The Angle of Depression may seem like the default view when life gets tough, but we have the choice to shift our gaze upward to the Angle of Elevation. When we look to God for answers and trust in His plan, we find hope, purpose, and the ability to navigate life’s challenges with unwavering faith. So, let’s choose the Angle of Elevation, for it is there that we discover God’s grace and strength to carry us through.

Thank you for all the comments on my posts.  I wasn’t sure if anyone was actually reading them.