Encouragement, Perspective, and Unity
Life can be tough. We face moments where challenges feel like they’re weighing us down, and sorrow can make everything seem cloudy. It’s in these times that faith can step in as a beacon of hope, helping us to see from a higher, clearer viewpoint. I remember such an experience at a peaceful retreat in Pennsylvania, gathered with other women in a calm mountain setting. Amidst the serenity, I felt as though God spoke directly to my heart, urging, “Follow me up the mountain.” That simple nudge filled me with encouragement to keep going, to trust, and to find comfort in His guidance.
Finding Rest in Christ’s Invitation
We don’t have to carry life’s burdens alone. Christ invites us to walk with Him, offering rest as we learn from His gentle and humble spirit. Matthew 11:29-30 says it beautifully: “Take my yoke and put it on you. Learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in spirit. You will find rest. For the yoke I will give you is easy, and the load I will put on you is light.” This isn’t just about following Him—it’s about seeing life through His perspective, one filled with hope and renewal.
This invitation from Christ is a reminder that we don’t have to let our troubles control us. Instead, we can rely on Him to guide us through and provide rest, even when our circumstances seem overwhelming. His perspective offers clarity and peace, helping us take a step back and see the bigger picture.
Shaping Our View: The Lens of Faith
We all view life through our own lenses, shaped by experiences and emotions. But sometimes, what we see can be distorted—blurred by negativity, fear, or brokenness. These patterns of thinking can drag us into feelings of anxiety, despair, or even conflict with others. Thankfully, faith provides an antidote to these distortions. Through Christ, we’re invited to rise above these earthly, limited views and instead see through eyes of hope and truth.
God’s perspective is full of love and clarity, lifting us beyond the shadows of doubt and weakness. 1 Peter 5:10 reminds us that while life may throw challenges at us, God strengthens us, making us “strong, firm, and steadfast.” By trusting in Him and choosing faith over fear, we can stay grounded in His truth, even when the world around us feels chaotic. Faith doesn’t just shift how we see life—it transforms how we approach it, giving us the courage to face each day with hope and determination.
Together in God’s Creation
It’s easy to feel divided in today’s world, with so much hostility and misinformation swirling around. But God calls us to unity, reminding us that every person is part of His creation. Acts 17:26 beautifully captures this idea: “From one, God made every nation of people to live on the face of the earth.” This truth tears down any ideas of superiority among races or groups, showing us that we are all connected through His love.
God’s love crosses every barrier. It asks us to reflect His character, to build bridges rather than walls, and to embrace compassion over division. When we focus on this unity, we become mirrors of His love, spreading peace and kindness in a world that desperately needs it. Unity in God’s creation helps us see each other not as strangers or enemies but as brothers and sisters, each cherished by Him.
Sharing the Good News
As followers of Christ, we’re encouraged to share the message of His salvation with others. Isaiah 40:9 and Isaiah 52:7 describe this beautifully: “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, ‘Your God reigns!’” These verses paint a picture of messengers traveling far and wide to share the gospel, bringing hope and peace to those in need.
We are called to be those messengers, carrying the good news to people who might be lost, hurting, or searching for meaning. Whether it’s through conversations, acts of kindness, or simply living in a way that reflects God’s love, we have the chance to shine His light into the lives of others. Our faith gives us the strength and purpose to fulfill this calling, reminding us that every step we take can lead someone closer to His grace.
The Power of Faith in Resurrection
Faith isn’t just about seeing what’s in front of us—it’s about trusting in what’s beyond. Hebrews 11:1-2 puts it perfectly: “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for. By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.” This kind of faith is transformative, allowing us to believe in the invisible and trust in God’s promises.
Faith anchors us, helping us stay steady even when life feels uncertain. It reminds us that God holds the future and that His love and sovereignty are unwavering. Through faith, we can deepen our relationship with Him, gaining the confidence to navigate life’s twists and turns while staying grounded in His truth.
A Blessing for the Journey
As you walk the path of faith, let this blessing from Numbers 6:24-26 comfort and uplift you: “‘The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.’” These words are a reminder that God is with you, providing strength, peace, and encouragement at every step of the journey.
Faith isn’t just a destination—it’s a journey, one where we learn to see through Christ’s eyes and trust in His love and guidance. As you continue on this path, may you find hope, renewal, and the transformative power of His perspective. Blessings to you as you follow His lead and discover the beauty of life through His lens.
May the love of God shine through us, bringing hope, healing, and transformation to those around us. Amen.
Minister A. Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 