I have been pondering a parable that I heard somewhere over the last few months---perhaps you have heard it, too. It goes something like this:
I came across three men who were at work laying bricks. I asked the first man, “What are you doing?” He replied, “What does it look like I’m doing? I’m laying bricks!”
I then asked the second man, “What are you doing?” He replied, “Well, I’m building this wall.”
Finally I asked the third man, “What are you doing?” He replied, “Oh, I am building a magnificent castle!”
I’ve been learning about perspective. I need to have God’s heart, God’s vision, and God’s perspective in all things! To be perfectly honest, sometimes I feel like I’m just “laying bricks.” But as I’ve talked with fellow “brick layers,” I’ve been so encouraged by their perspective...they’re building castles! They keep God’s perspective in view.
I’m reminded of a couple of scriptures. Proverbs 29:18 - “Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained.” And, of course, “vision” is not necessarily a “goal,” as we frequently use the word. It is “revelation.” So we need a revelation from God---to see what He sees---His perspective.
Colossians 3:1,2 - “1Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth.” I know many times I have lost my heavenly perspective, sometimes in regard to ministry, but particularly when dealing with the day-to-day issues of life. But God says to always set my mind on the things above.
I am so thankful for those whom God has put into my path and brought into my life who always “seek the things above,” and who keep a laser-like lock on God’s vision and God’s perspective. We are supposed to encourage each other and build one another up (1 Thessalonians 5:11). You have done that for me, and I pray that I may do that for you as well.
Blessings!
Deborah
