Perspective: What You Choose to See

What is the defining trait of a trailblazer? Is it someone who is innovative and creative? One who is consistent and balanced? Although the aforementioned characteristics are helpful and even indicative of any groundbreaking successor, perspective indefinitely trumps them all. One's perspective on any given circumstance determines his or her reactions, responses, and even recognition. For example, let's say that I was given a promotion to move from one part of the country to another. This new location drips with colorful landscapes, diverse restaurants, and compelling sights. But once I arrive, it does not appear to deliver on all that I was told regarding living arrangements or even the community of inhabitants. The job requires a bit more than I thought because I grew accustomed to my daily routine; my co-workers are not as talkative as my former comrades; and my salary is the same but allows more room for advancement.

Now one could survey this situation and believe the given promotion seems more like descension than ascension. This person would more than likely not capitalize on the given opportunities provided and make lateral moves or move back home altogether. However, the trailblazer approach is to see all problems and opposition as an opportunity to solve a problem, or grow in character, or gain divine partnerships perhaps. As much as we believe our issues or innate struggles are respective to current or more recent generations, feel free to look back at the Israelites in Numbers 14 as they refused to enter into Canaan - their Promised Land, their promotion.

Prior to moving, word came back that the land was "flowing with milk and honey" and contained much "fruit." However, when they heard that the people were "strong" and contained cities that are "fortified," the Israelites grew intimidated and grumbled to return back to Egypt - their Bondage Land. Despite being told by God that they would inhabit the land and that it was given to them, the Israelites could not see past their own fears of people they did not even personally encounter at that point. They chose to focus on their fears, their doubts, their insecurities, and placed little to none - actually none on God and what He told them. Unfortunately due to this poor, unprofitable perspective, they did not inhabit the land. Only two crossed over and inhabited the land: Joshua and Caleb. They too saw the same situation but chose a different perspective. They chose to remember what God said, and place their belief in the power and faithfulness of God and not in their own might.

Even if you are not facing a new job or new location, what situations are you encountering where you are literally talking yourself out of why you cannot or will not move forward? Are you placing more weight on yourself and not casting your cares to God? What opportunity is disguising itself in your current opposition? Ask the Lord to give you fresh eyes to view your situation from.