Thinking Big Picture

Psalm 46:4-5 (NIV) 
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.

There was a trend online of people discussing corporate failures. One person advised: ‘You’re saving spreadsheets, not lives - don’t panic’. Some reading this may have jobs literally saving lives and we’re so grateful, but I think the heart of the communication was to think BIG PICTURE! To put our roles and activities into context.

As believers, we should apply the 'big picture' much more to our lives. The psalmist speaks prophetically of the city of God, a river of life to come; a place of joy, surrounded by the Lord’s presence, where there will be ‘no more death or mourning or crying or pain’ (Revelation 21:4) We can put our present into perspective by reminding ourselves of our eternal future. This will enable us to reframe the mundane, to live out an eternity mindset today - who can we tell about Jesus? How can we make our structured days more interruptible by the Spirit?

We don’t have to be over-consumed with things that are temporary. We may make a mistake, a manager may not value all we do, we may feel unsuccessful, but let's not allow this to consume us. On the other hand, we may find extreme success and influence. But still, we mustn't let this consume us. Whether you are hoping for better days or are thriving, remind yourself that there is more ahead! 

What is so encouraging is that we believers experience part of what is promised in the passage today! ‘If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them’ (1 John 4:15). We have access to the presence of God daily. May we become more aware of his presence and the joy, strength and support it brings. If God dwells in us, we will not fall; He will help us! 

Prayer: Lord, today, make me more aware of your presence and all its glorious benefits.