Stop and stand back

It is very easy in the busyness of life to allow ourselves to get caught up in the activity and detail of everything around us.  Of course that is not a bad thing in itself.  The problems comes, however, when we 'mistake the edge of our rut, for the horizon', when we begin to lose sight of the bigger picture.

The whole of scripture points to life having rhythm.  Whether it is the pattern of work and rest in the creation account, or the expression of 'seasons' of life in Ecclesiastes, God's desire is for there to be variation in our life.  Just as we to push ahead with determination to pursue God's purpose for our lives, so also we need to stop and stand back.  I believe that such times are essential for us to regain sight of the bigger picture.  It doesn't so much matter when we do it, or even how we do it, but I believe we must do it.

In these times of stopping and standing back I believe there are some important things to reflect on:

• What has God been doing in my life?
• What is God doing in my life right now?
• What might God want to do in my life in the future?
• What is God doing elsewhere?

Taking time to consider these questions will broaden our horizons and enable a rich picture of God's activity in our world to form.  We will find the Kingdom, where before it was not apparent  and sense God's hand in places that previously appeared isolated.  It is often said that we can only live our lives looking forward, but only understand them looking back.

When and where will you stop and stand back?  You might think you can't afford the time, but I wonder whether you can afford not to.  Perhaps you will discover something that could change everything!

Rich Webb