An Altered Perspective

While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was deeply troubled by all the idols he saw everywhere in the city. … So Paul, standing before the council, addressed them.

Acts 17:16, 22 nlt

When it comes to addressing mental health challenges, we often think of eating better, getting more exercise, and finding professional help. But one technique is often left off the list: changing our mind-set.

None of us has control over every event that comes into our lives, but we do have a choice in how we approach it and work through it. We can concentrate on the negative and unpleasant and be upset about the detour to our plans, or we can choose to look for what God would have us see and do in the moment. We can change our perspective.

When Paul was waiting for Timothy and Silas in Athens, the rampant idolatry upset him. Given his recent beating and imprisonment in another city, Paul could have chosen to hide out in Athens in fear, looking out for his own safety and waiting in silence until his friends arrived. Instead, Paul looked at the situation through God’s eyes and saw people in need. He used the Athenians’ religious zeal as a connecting point for him to talk about the one true God (Acts 17:16–34).

The same shift in perspective can happen for us. No one would volunteer to struggle with a mental illness. But what if the things God wants us to accomplish are only possible through the struggle of depression?

Setting aside a few minutes every day to step back and consider emotional health from a different standpoint probably will not come naturally. But if we can look intentionally at the situation with a different lens, we can find acceptance while we persevere.

When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.

Viktor Frankl

If you don’t like something change it; if you can’t change it, change the way you think about it.

Mary Engelbreit

Perspective is everything when you are experiencing the challenges of life.

Joni Eareckson Tada

For Further Reflection

Colossians 3:2; Isaiah 55:8–9; 2 Peter 3:8–9

Today’s Prayer

Jesus, sometimes my life seems chaotic. Sometimes I don’t understand my path or your plans. Please remind me that you know every step I take and every situation I find myself in. Help me to see my days through your lens. Amen.