Front Row Seat

Do you ever feel like you can’t see the big picture? Sometimes, I get so stuck in the circumstances of what’s happening around me. I feel all the emotions. Big ones. I worry. I wonder. I create every possible scenario and outcome. I try to fix and solve, which leads to more anxiety. I lose site of the big picture.

Eventually, usually after I’ve exhausted myself and all of my means, I come to a place of surrender. It goes something like this. “OK, God. I have no idea what you’re up to and how this will be resolved, but I give it to you.” Honestly, it’s not that short and simple. And it’s not a once and done. But it starts there. In reality, I repeatedly invite God to handle it. I repeatedly will myself to stop fretting and trust him. I repeatedly ask him to give me new perspective or understanding or peace. I think you get the point. But eventually, I remember something I learned as a new mother. If I’m praying about it, I have a front row seat to see what God is doing. I’ve come to use the visual of a popcorn bucket to remind me. When I’m watching a show, I’m not the one performing. I sit back and watch. The holds true when we entrust our circumstances. He’s the one working. Yes, he may use a little audience participation so it’s best for me to be paying attention, but it’s his act.

I’m not sure what you’re worried about right now. A wayward kid? A struggling marriage? A health diagnosis or financial struggles? If you were sitting across from me sipping coffee, I’d ask if you’re praying about it. Then, I’d remind you to watch and notice how God’s at work in the situation. Praise him in the meantime. Continue to pray and present your concerns to him. But, choose to trust. Follow where he leads. Act when he instructs. Pay attention, but otherwise, wait with anticipation. You have a front row seat to see what he’ll do. In the meantime, remember to grab some popcorn.