What's Your Angle?

A blanket of fresh snow carpeted the panoramic scene outside the window looking to the river. A bald eagle swooped low overhead, searching for breakfast. With a cup of tea in hand, this was the view my sister described one Saturday morning as we talked on the phone. Just as easily, she could have described the scene differently.

She could have complained about shoveling the walk and driveway…again. Or she could have been irritated at the weatherman for being wrong about how this was only supposed to be a dusting of snow, not seven inches on her back porch. She could have lamented the dogs tracking in the ice and snow requiring another floor mopping. But she chose to see the beauty that God had given instead of the inconveniences.

It was a beautiful reminder that the same circumstance can be viewed from different angles. We have a choice in how we respond to the circumstances in life. We can focus on the negatives – our inconveniences, how unfair life can be, how we have been hurt or misaligned. Or we can focus on the good – the blessings, the joys. People who follow the command of Philippians 4:8, lead joy-filled lives. “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy – meditate on these things.” This does not imply that we avoid dealing with difficult areas, but it does command us to focus on the good over the bad. Notice the word meditate in the verse. It is where our attention needs to be directed.

Just as my sister viewed the snow as an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of creation, we need to apply the lens of Philippians 4:8 to gain proper perspective on the events around us. When we are always on the look out for the fun, the good, and the unexpected surprises, we view life with anticipation. That expectancy creates a brighter outlook that not only makes life more enjoyable, but also leads to better health and stronger relationships.

God delights in giving good things to us. I believe the snow blanket was a gift for my sister to enjoy that Saturday morning. She chose to accept the gift and relish it. I’d like to tackle my day that same way…looking for the good, unexpected gifts that God scatters around me, just waiting for me to notice. I often wonder how many gifts He sends, that I miss. I don’t want to miss them anymore. How about you? Are willing to join me in looking for God’s gifts sprinkled throughout your day, just waiting to be picked up and enjoyed?