“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”— 2 Corinthians 4:17-18
At the famed Battle of Inchon in the Korean War, Marine Corps General Chesty Puller made a powerful statement about the importance of perspective.
With an ocean behind them and enemy combatants on every other side, the gritty general shouted, “This is great, men! They’ll never get away this time.”
The best way to tackle an obstacle is to see it as an opportunity. And through Christ, that’s what everything you face really is – an opportunity to grow in your faith, an opportunity to impact others for eternity, and an opportunity to experience God’s presence in new and exciting ways.
Think of all the obstacles in Scripture that were turned into opportunities for God to be glorified and His people blessed. Joseph’s betrayal and imprisonment in Egypt led to the salvation of the Hebrew people from famine. King David’s years of running from Saul led to some of the most powerful and encouraging Psalms in the Bible. And Jesus’ death on the cross became our victory over death.
So if you’re staring at an obstacle today, stop. No matter if it’s an illness, a loss, or a struggle, take your eyes off the trial you’re going through and fix them on the One who can turn anything into a triumph.
Because when you see your life from God’s perspective, you realize there really are no obstacles He can’t overcome!
Prayer Challenge
Ask God to help you have His perspective on life. And pray for the strength to keep your gaze fixed on Jesus no matter what trials come your way.
Questions for thought
Can you think of a time in the past when you allowed an obstacle to control your perspective rather than God?
What are some obstacles in your life today that could become opportunities for God’s glory and your blessing?