Perspective is valuable. It provides a visual context, whether it's a mental or actual picture of something. A reference point is needed to have an accurate perspective.
If the reference point is false or inaccurate, the perspective will be distorted. So, a true perspective needs a true reference point.
Life has its ups and downs, so having a good sense of perspective is important if you don't want your life to be an emotional rollercoaster.
Scripture
A psalm by David sung at the dedication of the temple.
I will honor you highly, O Lord, because you have pulled me out ⌊of the pit⌋ and have not let my enemies rejoice over me. O Lord my God, I cried out to you for help, and you healed me. O Lord, you brought me up from the grave. You called me back to life from among those who had gone into the pit. [vss 1-3]
Make music to praise the Lord, you faithful people who belong to him. Remember his holiness by giving thanks. His anger lasts only a moment. His favor lasts a lifetime. Weeping may last for the night, but there is a song of joy in the morning. [vss 4-5]
When all was well with me, I said, “I will never be shaken.” O Lord, by your favor you have made my mountain stand firm. When you hid your face, I was terrified. I will cry out to you, O Lord. I will plead to the Lord for mercy: “How will you profit if my blood is shed, if I go into the pit? Will the dust ⌊of my body⌋ give thanks to you? Will it tell about your truth?” [vss 6-9]
Hear, O Lord, and have pity on me! O Lord, be my helper! You have changed my sobbing into dancing. You have removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy so that my soul may praise you with music and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever. [vss 10-12]
(Psalm 30:1-12 GW) [Context– Psalm 30]
Key phrase— Weeping may last for the night, but there is a song of joy in the morning
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Digging Deeper...
Review the Scriptures above as you answer the following questions
What are three (3) things David is thankful for?
What is the encouragement given about anger, favor, weeping, and joy?
How would you describe the prayerful dialog between David and the Lord?
What great change did the Lord bring in David's life that he's thankful for?
Reflection...
King David personally experienced God's great favor and kindness in many ways during his life. Not just when things were good, but even in times of personal failure.
David understood that God's favor was based on his relationship of trust in God. He learned to trust God in times of great trial and testing.
Because he had these real reference points of experiencing God's favor in his life, David was able to maintain a clear perspective. He knew he could trust God in all situations and circumstances.
He knew what it was like to move from sorrow and despair into a time of joy and celebration, because of God's faithfulness, not his own.
Make it personal...
Read through the Scripture text again as you consider and answer these questions
Have you experienced God pulling you out of darkness into His light and life?
Do you take time and make time to thank the Lord for His faithfulness in your life?
How has the Lord restored you after a time of failure or testing?
Have you shared with others about God's gracious work in your life?
Would you like a free study guide for your study of Psalms?