In-the-Box or Out-of-the-Box?

I was sitting this morning with my wife and watching a recorded episode of Turning Point with Dr. David Jeremiah. He was teaching about the life of Job and one part of the sermon caught my attention... He was preaching about the interaction between Job and one of his so-called friends, Zophar, and Dr. Jeremiah said that the friend was attempting to put God in "a box" of his own experiences. Dr. Jeremiah taught that God is too great and awesome to fit "in-the-box" of our own worldview... "true knowledge and wisdom come from having a broad perspective on life..." of seeing God "out-of-the-box" of our perspective!

I have been reminded of just this point several times this week, especially when I was recalling my trip to Africa last year... It's been exactly one year since I made the visioning trip to Uganda and Tanzania that totally changed my perspective on how big God really is -- from a variety of angles! Whether it was the trip en route to Africa recognizing some of God's most awesome creations (the peoples of the world, the natural wonders of Europe & Africa, and the simplicity of African life -- check out Episode #4 of My African Adventure blog) or the experience of being stranded in downtown Kampala or the discovery of the source of the Nile River or the visit in Tanzania with the two different business as mission (BAM) groups... Reflection on these experiences continues to show me that God doesn't fit "in-the-box" of my perspective.

As well, the past year has repeatedly showed me one of the lessons that I took away from my African trip -- that I must simply rely on God and place my trust in Him that He would direct my thoughts, my words, my steps, my actions... everything!

This has been especially true with my new business -- fHg Consulting! A friend kept telling me to "step out of the boat" and start my firm... and frankly, Peter's experience in meeting Jesus on the waves in Matthew 14 continues to remind me of my need to rely on Christ. When Peter turns his attention to all of the concerns around him (the wind and waves), instead of focusing on Jesus, he begins to sink and cries out "Lord, save me!" Why? Because he took his eyes off of Christ and on everything around him which could have spelled his failure... Therefore, real faith is staying focused on Jesus at all times, even when the world seems to be pressing in.

So, remember that God is larger, by far, than the "box" of my perspective and stay alert for where He is working around me... And, focus on Christ and he'll direct my steps!