A New Perspective

So, in following my study, for the next few chapters, the book focuses on Ephesians 1:3-14. Not too bad right? Only 12 verses. But WOW! Talk about making you do some major thinking/reflection. The author started off by focusing on "heavenly places" and posed a couple of questions...

• "From what angle do you view the variety of situations you face during a given day?"
• "Does the reality of what is happening in the heavenly places influence how you view your earthly circumstances?"

If I am being completely honest, I would have to say that I focus on my earthly situations/circumstances before I view things in terms of eternity. My "reality" is the here and now. My earthly circumstances are what drives me, keep me going, or bring me down. I completely have a wrong view of things. Rarely do I take time to focus, reflect, etc... on my heavenly reality. I am so consumed with what I do and don't have here on Earth that I lose site of what I DO have in Christ.

So, my point of view needs to be reworked. Just in these few pages, I am starting to realize just how narrow a mindset I do have. God is providing me with so much more; so much more to strive for; to look forward to. But, yet, I choose not to focus on what he has provided, is providing and will provide. I am choosing to focusing on my earthly realities; earthly struggles.

Yes, I do believe that I need to focus on what is going on in the here and now, but a better understanding and balance in my perspective of eternity and my present and future in Christ is a must!

The author shares 2 verses that I find very comforting...

2 Corinthians 4:17-18 - "For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal."

Colossians 3:1-3 - If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.

I pray that in the days, weeks, months, and years to come that I am able to view things in light of my eternal reward; knowing that I have a place in heaven with Christ. Lord, please foster in me this mindset.