YOUR VIEW

LIMITED VIEW 

Sitting here at my window looking at my view inspired my writing today.  Directly in front of me is the green pasture, safe solid, with the ability to see even things that are hidden within the grass.  I see a few trees, a rock, dirt and some pebbles.  

I stretch my eyes to see beyond the end of the pasture.  There's the road, but from my view it seems too narrow for the vehicles that are passing by.  It is obvious that my sitting position view distorts the actual size. 

Looking further ahead, I see the stumps of trees that have been cut, new trees, older trees and also another field.   I see a bird walking the field, a few signs and other landmarks.  The buildings seem in reach and close to the edge of the field.  

I know from my traveling back and forth that there is a road between the building and the filed, but I can't see it from my limited view.  There is also a large distance to the building with another field which can't be seen from my view.  Yet it seem within reach. 

A stretched view over the buildings is the mountain covered by clouds because it has been raining.  There are a few houses, trees, antennas and light poles.  However the trees look more like a field because I am only allowed to see the top.  A few homes are just a peak view.  Does that mean... 
There are no rocks, soil, roads or other buildings, beneath or around the trees? 
What's behind the mountain? 
Is there anything above the clouds? 
These questions may never be answered from our sitting position?  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  DISTORTED VIEW 

This experience of nature reveals so many things in the natural and spiritual points.  First let's establish that not because we can't see things from where we are that they do not exist.  The other thing is that we may know that they exist only because we are familiar with the area or process.  Like the fact, because I have traveled that road before, I know that there is a road between the field and the school building.  I also know that there are parking lots and pavements in front of the school.  

However, because of my limited view and sitting position everything beyond my knowledge and what I can see becomes distorted.  It's time to shift PHYSICALLY and MENTALLY! 

Our physical, and yes, our mental position/view, can give a false impression, inaccurate details, or misrepresentation of the facts and actuality of things.  It can be manipulated by what we know which limits growth and productivity.  It can also hinder us from reaching beyond our comfort zone to explore the plans, and great wonders God has planned for us.  

Jeremiah 29:11  (KJV)

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. 

As you think on today's discussion give thought to the following: 
What is your view from where you are sitting?  
Do you need to shift your location/position?
Do you need to explore beyond what you can see or know? 

Answering these questions honestly will align you with a better perspective and shift your thinking to the greater end.  

God wants us to see beyond our limited view of life.  He longs to bring us to a new level that requires us to believe beyond our view of what we can see.  This also indicates that a distorted view of knowing who God is and can do will give us a clustered view, and everything will look close.  It can give false hopes, and create shortcuts rather than enduring the journey and or process that is required.  It is important to know and believe that there is life and greater beyond the mountains and above the clouds.  

Remember, The higher you go, the greater the challenge of your faith.  From your view, everything is visible, but it takes faith to get to the destination.  There are times you may not be able to move from your position, but you must shift in your mind to believe that possibilities exist even when you can't see them.  God is not limited by what your eyes can see, behold or your minds can comprehend.  A childlike trusting faith would be necessary to believe through the process of waiting, uncertainty, darkness, storms and life's challenges.  When your physical limitations distorts your ability to see, be transformed with the renewing of your mind, concentrate on the truth of God's word, use your shield of faith, and know that your lack of faith does not change what is already reserved for you by God! 

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel 

SUMMERTIME

SUMMERTIME 

Summertime is the period of time that summer lasts.  Schools are closed, travel and vacations are planned, and other various activities are structured to unite families. Events, and other amusement parks/destinations prepare for the crowd. 

Summertime is also a time of fun-beach,  lemonade sales, barbecues, ice-cream and other summer socials.  

Summer camps are active and other programs are in sessions to teach and equip students for the new school year.  

Summer jobs are also available for training and experience.  Individuals are placed in areas of their expertise and interest.  

Summer buzz..... is also activated with heat and in some areas dryness and humidity.  

Summertime is also preparation for the fall and winter season!  

TODAY'S FOCUS:  SUMMER REFLECTIONS 

As you reflect over the "summer" season of your life let's discuss the various areas listed above:

What are your plans for the summer season? 

Are you experiencing enough fun and joy? 

How are you equipping yourself for the next season? 

What lessons are you learning? 

What's buzzing around you this summer?

• Are you experiencing heat or any painful experiences? 

• Is there any dry areas in your life that you need watered/refreshed? 

• What about humidity-what clammy, heavy, oppressive feelings are your feeling?

Summertime is indeed a time of planning and preparation.  As you look at the natural, think of the internal/eternal values of summer.  Taking vacations and attending other life events like conferences, retreats, workshops can prepare you for the fall and winter seasons.  

Likewise taking breaks and enjoying life-go to the beach, engage in social time with family and friends.  Take time out for you by doing something special.  Spend time with a friend or loved one.  

Develop friendships that can be an avenue of comfort and battle buddies for the wintertime.  Equip yourself with knowledge, learn something new, learn strategies to face the changes of the seasons ahead.  

There is nothing like on the job training.  Get involve with people, services and places that you can gain experience and training.  Even if it's not an area of interest, it may benefit you or someone close to you. You will need it when you get to the next level of your life.  

Remember don't be caught up in the heat without refreshing yourself daily in the word, prayer and sharing.  Use the summertime to do what can be done before the winter months come and you are limited by the weather or other life conditions.  Summertime is the time of preparation-be equipped and purposeful, but give yourself room to feel and learn from others.  Don't be afraid to share your story, successes as well as failures to help another person grow and or avoid the mistakes of not planning/preparing.  

God Bless you and Keep the Faith!

Virtuous Jewel