A new perspective

We’ve been riding there for years. A small county park not too far from the stable. Many weight-of-the-world conversations have taken place along the rolling, tree-canopied trails that loop around several small lakes covered in lily pads. I know the spot where I kicked up a wild turkey once. I know the trail that has the tree with a huge growth protruding from its midsection. And there’s my favorite picnic table overlooking a secluded lake. The park is familiar to Ernie and me. We’ve enjoyed our time there.

The past two years, however, the county has been carving new paths through woods. It’s a shame how many trees have been taken out. And now I’m just a little confused as a I wander the new trails.

But I’ve also discovered a beautiful new perspective on the lake that I’ve passed by dozens of times before. The new trails are grassy instead of rocky. And the horse trail doesn’t cross the road repeatedly anymore. My favorite spots are still there; now I have a new, fresh perspective on a familiar park and a few new favorite spots.

A similar thing happens when we read the Bible. The first time reading through it, it can be eye opening. It’s exciting and interesting, and, dare I say, even relevant. The more you study it, the more you remember. Verses stand out. There are verses I return to time and again to help me through difficult times and help me persevere.

The Bible has become familiar to me. As I go through new experiences in my life and read through portions not so well known, however, I gain new, fresh perspective. New verses stand out to me and become relevant as the Spirit shows me how it correlates with my life now. Verses I glossed over a few years ago take on new meaning with new life experiences and events.

Just like I’ll continue seeking new views and experiences when I ride, I’ll continue reading my Bible and seeking new relevance to my life today. Will you as well? What verses has the Holy Spirit revealed to you recently? Have you discovered verses that inspire you in new ways because of circumstances in your life? Feel free to post a favorite verse and tell why it's relevant to you. I'd love to see how God is speaking into your life today.

Isaiah 55:10-11: “The rain and snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry. It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to and it will prosper everywhere I send it.”

2 Timothy 3:16-17: “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make use realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right. It is God’s way of preparing us in every way, fully equipped for every good thing God wants us to do.”

Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light for my path.”