It's All Perspective

When Becca and I visited a college last week, we met with several of her friends who just started at the school this fall. Each had a different perspective on the advantages and disadvantages of the school, and for the most part they were thrilled with their choices to attend.

One friend, however, was having a miserable time. She didn't get along well with her roommates, she was not very involved in any activities, and she was terribly homesick.

How is it that different people have such opposite perspectives on something? Yes, each of us has different needs and interests, but these girls were having totally different experiences. There are many factors that play into this particular situation, but it has ramifications for life as a whole.

Do you know people who are miserable all the time? No matter what life hands them, they act as if there is a great dark cloud over their heads. In addition, they seem to suck others into their sense of woe.

Others, who may have really terrible things happen, seem to find a bright spot or a way to cope in tough situations. They, too, seem to pull other people toward their point of view.

There is one thing that we can know -- we will have trouble in this world. Jesus himself told us that in John 16:33. He also tells us that he has overcome the world. A little earlier, John records these words of Jesus:

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

When we lean on Him, He shares his peace and helps us to cope with our daily problems. And, if we are reflecting Jesus to others, we will help them cope with their problems, too.

Which type of person are you?