Look up: Seeing things from God's perspective

Abi Miller (Paisley Citadel) encourages us to shift our focus and see things from God’s perspective.

Have you ever noticed how often we find ourselves longing for something other than what we have right now? We look forward to our next holiday but, once it comes, we miss the comfort of our own bed. 

We wish for the freedom of adulthood, only to later long for the carefree days of our youth. It feels like we’re always searching for happiness elsewhere.

But what if the answer isn’t in a new house, job or circumstance, but instead in looking to God for help and adopting his perspective?

So much of our dissatisfaction comes from comparing ourselves to others. We can see people with seemingly perfect lives – their careers, families or spiritual journeys – and feel as if we’re falling short. 

Maybe you’ve thought: ‘If I just had that one thing, I’d finally be happy.’ This way of thinking can slip into our faith too – comparing our relationship with God, or our role in the Church, to someone else’s instead of keeping the focus on our personal journey with him.

Esther 4:14 reminds us of God’s divine purpose for each of us: ‘And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?’ Just as Esther was placed in her position for a reason, our current circumstances – our work, our families, our communities, our struggles – might be the very tools God is using to create something extraordinary.

How do we embrace this? How do we stop longing for a different story and trust God’s plan? It starts with shifting our focus. Instead of dwelling on what we lack, we can pray for God’s guidance and ask him to help us see the blessings and opportunities around us. 

It’s about staying alert and learning to see the beauty and hope that God sees in each of us. God calls us to trust his purpose and notice his presence in the ordinary moments of life. 

The real beauty often isn’t in grand achievements but in small, everyday blessings. When we take the time to see his hand at work – even in routine or frustrating situations – it can completely transform how we view life.

Doing God’s work begins with tuning into his perspective and letting it shape our actions. While we are part of a broader community of believers, each of us has our own role to play.

We’re called to be patient – not only with others, but also with the journey of faith itself. God’s timing is always perfect, even when it doesn’t align with our own plans.

As a church family, if we prioritise God’s mission – to know, grow, and show his love – and stay rooted in Jesus, nothing can stand in our way. Yes, there will be times of stress, but focusing on this mission keeps us united and purposeful.

By shifting our perspective to see through God’s eyes – seeking his wisdom, love, and guidance in all we do – we can open new doors to unity, growth and boundless possibilities. When we choose to live with grace, compassion and unwavering faith, this vision can become our reality.

• Abi is a member of the Territorial Justice and Reconciliation Youth Forum. Find out more at salvationist.org.uk/youthforum.