It’s easy to get discouraged in a world determined to tear us down. Every day we are bombarded with obstacles and difficult circumstances that get in the way of living the life we want to live. The death of a loved one, job loss, physical ailments, health concerns, rocky relationships, and flat-out fatigue push us to the brink. Sometimes we wonder if we’ll survive and are tempted to give up hope. It happens to all of us. No one is alone in feeling despair.
This world is a fallen place, inhabited by dark forces seeking to destroy our dreams and aspirations. Above all, Satan is intent on foiling any attempt we make at drawing closer to God. He will stop at nothing to distract you from Christ. When discouragement comes, you need to change your perspective. You need to see this world for what it is and refocus on what matters.
Changing your perspective is easier said than done. It involves turning from the path of least resistance and walking a harder road. In the depths of despair, few have the energy to lift their eyes and look to our Savior. It’s a bit of a paradox. We know what we need to do. We know Jesus is the only way out of the mess in which we find ourselves, but we don’t want to do what we need to do. You know you need to change your perspective, but it’s so much work and you are so tired of trying. I get it. I understand because I’ve been there far too many times.
To change your perspective, you need to recognize what is true. We know all truth is found in Jesus (John 14:6). He is the source of all truth. Therefore, when we want to know what is true about ourselves or any situation, we must start with Jesus. Recognize all evil and misfortune are the result of Satan and sin. Jesus is the epitome of love. He wants only the best for you. He created you to live a perfect life devoted to Him. Unfortunately, we’ve all succumbed to the attacks of the devil and to the effects of generations of sin. The world isn’t perfect. The closest we get to perfection is when we are spending intimate time with Jesus. This is where we need to live.
Changing your perspective means taking your eyes off yourself and your current circumstances and focusing on Jesus. He created you for a purpose. The work He has given you to do is part of His mission on earth. You get to decide if you will play your role or give in to this world. You can stay down, defeated and depressed, or you can change your perspective, look to Jesus, and be victorious despite everything Satan and his minions throw at you. Your perspective matters. When you focus on yourself or the things of this world, you are doomed. But when you change your perspective to see everything in life as part of the mission of Christ, when you recognize you have a role to play in His Kingdom, everything changes. It’s not about you. It’s not about me. It’s all about Jesus. He is all that matters. Don’t lose your perspective. Keep your focus on Him.