Gaining Perspective

A few days ago I ended my post with a little picture of something that I was planning on painting and using in our house.  A little picture like this...figure it out yet?

Before we get to that I wanted to share what has been on my mind the last few days.  As you know, we have had an amazing summer but it has also been an extremely busy summer - putting a lot of our home improvement projects on hold.  Honestly, it was a much welcomed break.  Taking a break from furiously working really has given us a better perspective on the projects we need to focus on and what we can feasibly get done over the next few months.  Also, we have been re-energized and have gained that initial excitement again for all things house- remodel.  As I was painting yesterday and thinking about these things my mind began to think on things of God.  I just love how this house remodel has challenged the way I look at every situation.  So many times I can turn to my own spiritual life and begin to relate it back to what I'm working on.  So here's the deal with this.  Just like we needed to stop and gain perspective on our home projects, we need to stop and gain some spiritual perspective every now and again - a spiritual check-up if you will.  We have been furiously working this summer, going to camp, mission trips, vba, you name it.   All wonderful, great things...but it's time to stop, check ourselves and gain some refreshing insight on God.  How are we doing with our walk with God?  Proverbs 4:20-27 is a great reference or spiritual check-list  for just that perspective.

"My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words. Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to one’s whole body.  Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips.  Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil."

• Are we staying in God's word?  Hiding it in our hearts?
• Keeping our hearts pure?
• Speaking kindly and honoring to God?
• Have we lost focus?  Is Jesus the Center of our lives?
• Who are we following daily?  Is our path straight?

Those are just a few questions I am asking myself after reading these verses.  Gaining spiritual perspective will help us regain our focus, clean up any messy areas and give us an excitement for following God and doing His work.  Essential.  

So...back to the paint job, I know you have all been anxiously waiting the reveal...It's a candle holder!

A little spray paint, a candle and now it's a sweet table centerpiece.  A little perspective is all you needed.