Have you ever needed a shift of perspective when a situation doesn’t go like you anticipated? I often need such a readjustment in my vision.
A disheartening insurance situation had not resolved. I had hoped for a better result, and now felt anxious and discouraged from the increased financial implication for my family.
Prayer and reading verses on God’s provision helped a little, but I couldn’t shake the bleak feeling. I kept looking to God but also continued listening to the negative thoughts and self-pity that crept into my mind.
At my computer, I began to write a possible magazine article, noticing that the next suggested theme was “holiness.” Sigh! I felt distant from the Lord and discouraged. I knew I should have something to say about God’s holiness and His impact on our lives. But right then, I felt empty and my mind was blank.
The Lord didn’t leave me without hope. The Holy Spirit guided me to focus on verses about the holiness of God’s character.
Who among the gods is like you, Lord ? Who is like you— majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders? Exodus 15:11
There is no one holy like the Lord; there is no one besides you; there is no Rock like our God. 1 Samuel 2:2
Each verse reminded me of the majesty of God’s holiness, shifting my perspective to the Lord.
Isaiah 57:15-16 pointed out how God doesn’t remain distant from us but chooses to reach to us.
For this is what the high and exalted One says—he who lives forever, whose name is holy:
I live in a high and holy place, but also with the one who is contrite and lowly in spirit,
to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite. Isaiah 57:15-16
The tension in my mind and soul relaxed as my perspective shifted from worry about the situation to praising God who cared about me.
I journaled:
I praise You for being holy and living forever, but I also praise You for not remaining far off. When I see your holiness, I bow my heart in awe. How can I be worthy of a relationship with You? Your holiness is such a contrast to my sinful self-centeredness. Let me gaze at You.
A praise song came to mind. At the piano, my attention turned toward the majestic character of God.
Focusing on His holiness lifted me from being stuck in the mire of negative self-pity. God restored my heart and perspective.
If you’re needing a shift in perspective, change your focus. Gaze at the holiness of the Lord.
Listen to “When I Look into your Holiness” by Wayne & Cathy Perrin and read the story behind the song.
https://youtu.be/FtL2GUE1RS4
