Proper Perspective
Categories: Church of Christ Bulletin ArticlesThe way we view life makes all the difference in the world. We carve out for ourselves incentives and motivation from the structure of our conduct and existence. The apostle Paul cogently reminds us:
“For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God” (Romans 8:6-7 KJV).
In Hebrews 5, the Lord reminds us that when we are not discerning or perceptive, we are shallow and useless in the cause of Christ. The ability to become ardent soldiers of the Lord, is based on our perspective for living. When we grovel in the gutter of sin and shame, we are worthless in the area of holiness and dedication.
A tombstone once stated:
“As fades the leaf and morning flower,
So fade our lives each passing hour.
As dews melt before the sun,
So pass our lives one by one.”
What we do in this life to prepare for eternity, is based upon our purpose and commitment now. The following simple formula for success really works. You can anything you want, provided you:
1) Know exactly what you want.
2) Want it hard enough.
3) Confidently expect to attain it.
4) Persistently determine to obtain it.
5) Are willing to pay the price of its attainment.
The reason over one million divorces occur each year in America, is that too many husbands and wives have totally different perspectives, goals and ambitions. People ought to iron out these matters prior to marriage. When a Christian marries a person of the world, a gigantic gap between the two automatically arises. Unequal yoking (2 Corinthians 6:14) in any are of life causes conflict. Proper values form the foundation of success.
Losing ourselves in God’s work is the key. Our perspective concerning why we are here on earth, will determine whether we are optimistic or pessimistic. Paul wrote, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). But without the Savior, we can do nothing (John 15:1-5 KJV).
What the heavenly Father did for us, should cause us to bask in the light of the glory of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17,21 KJV). Proper evaluation concerning truth and error naturally reminds us of Psalm 119:104 KJV, “Through thy precepts I get understanding, therefore, I hate every false way.”
May we ever have the desire to be so wise.
—Johnny Ramsey (hear audio sermons), via the Montana Street bulletin