“Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
Hebrews 12:2
Chances are you read devotionals like this at the same time each day. Some, first thing, others, maybe not til the end of the day. If you are like me, I need something to put things in “Proper Perspective”. Scripture and thought-provoking writings help me re-group and have a clearer focus on what is real.
Among many things that can cloud our vision are circumstances and trials because of the issues of life. We tend to have a revolving scale to weigh things according to our values and perspective. The problem is our scales are tilted and need constant calibration.
The examples in Scripture help us to do that adjusting by putting things in “Proper Perspective”. “The Author and Finisher” is what we need to focus on to keep ourselves in a right frame of mind. This word Author is only used 4 times in the new testament and refers to “The Christ”, or “One who goes before”. He is the Writer of the script. “Looking unto Jesus” is more than just a glance, it’s a fixation or gaze that re-focuses our attention. It takes tilted scales and makes them right.
Fixing our eyes is a practice that can push us through a tough time that would be devastating otherwise. Sometimes proper perspective is what’s needed to make the right decision. Verse 3 reminds us, “For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls”. Weary and discouraged is a condition we are all susceptible to, it causes unnecessary grief and heartache. This is not to minimize certain circumstances that can be unbearable, where a time of mourning and comfort from others aren’t required.
“Proper Perspective” is what refines our thoughts in order to represent Kingdom values. To confess, “We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair” is a practice that comes when we know who we are. We are in a climate of political and social chaos that can cause anger and anxiety. It’s the Word of God that brings us back to “Proper Perspective”. I pray that today God will adjust our perspective and we can look unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith. Amen!
Written by Rob Russomano: Rob Russomano is married to Terri and serves with her as full-time staff members. He is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and is also available as a speaker of the grace of God with a message of Hope for church events. You can contact him at rrussomano@americaskeswick.org.
