Perspective

The whole “glass 1/2 full” or “glass 1/2 empty” is an analogy that dates further back then any of us can imagine. You would be hard pressed to find someone who hasn’t heard of some version of this concept. In general they say if you are more optimistic you will say it’s “1/2 full” yet if you are more pessimistic, you will way it’s “1/2 empty”. But I want to say there’s more to this than meets the eye.

It’s really not as simple as that. In addition to seeing the current condition of the glass, you also need to know what the objective is. For example… when I had to drink that nasty drink before a procedure (that everyone over 50 is aware of), my goal was to get that glass empty. And when I was half way done… I could either say, “Are you kidding me, the glass is only 1/2 empty”… or “Are you kidding me, the glass is still 1/2 full”… both of those statements are certainly both more pessimistic. You see… adding the word “only” or “still” can change the perspective… depending on the goal.

Why do I point this out… because the same can be said about the trials and tribulations we have in life. Jesus said,” I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) It is a simple fact that each and every one of us WILL HAVE TRIBULATION. Anyone who tells you differently, is spreading a lie straight from Satan.

We should never be surprised that we face trials. However, we all face different trials, with different levels of difficulty. These trials did not come as a surprise to Christ… and He is fully aware of what you can handle. Remember, Paul said, “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13

But our perspective as we face those trials, changes everything. I’ve met people who experience very similar disasters or tribulations and yet have a completely different perspective in it… and end up in completely differently places after. It comes down to having a victim or a victor mentality.

I’m not suggesting a “pick yourself up by your bootstraps and move on” sort of thing… In the middle of the trial, there are real emotions, potential loss or damage that needs to be addressed and worked on. But eventually, you will either choose to use that life experience as an excuse for poor choices… or as a learning experience to grow.

If you find yourself using your past as an excuse for current poor choices, then you’ve really missed the most important part of the experience you went through. It’s true that God never lets you be tempted by more than you can handle… but He also never meant for you to handle it on your own.

Your bad experiences, your trials and challenges… can either be the reason you use as excuses for poor choices and bad decisions… or the reason you grow as God intended. Grow from your mistakes and tribulations, continue to turn to Him in all things, because He never intended for you to carry it on your own. Paul also said, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13) Find your strength in Him.