From Blemish to Beauty Mark
Reframing our vision is important. It is easy to categorize experiences in our lives as successes or failures but maybe there’s more to the picture. Recently, my frame changed for a particular season of my life. Until recently the frame by which I viewed my business school experience was one of failure. I set out to become a media executive. I wanted to align with a major, recognizable brand. When neither of those things happened, I was disappointed and in a way, embarrassed. I’d brush shoulders with some powerful people in the industry and felt a step away from some amazing opportunities.
For a long time, I’ve framed my lookback of that period of my life as one of trusting God’s providence and wisdom. But looking back at the journey, I expected a straight, smooth path and when that didn't materialize, I was surprised.
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
I had the wrong lens. I expected no winding roads, no mistakes; otherwise the journey wouldn’t be considered a victory. But now I can look at the era as victorious because I tried something and failed and got back up. It takes courage to try, and humility and honesty to grow. With a new perspective, what I once saw as a blemish on my life’s past is more of a beauty mark.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)
Commentary NIV, Study Bible: God works in “all things” not just isolated incidents for our good. This does not mean that all that happens to us is good. Evil is prevalent in our fallen world, but God is able to turn every circumstance around for our long-range good. Note that God is not working to make us happy, but to fulfill his purpose. Note also that this promise is not for everybody. It can be claimed only by those who love God and are called according to his purpose. Those who are “called” are those the Holy Spirit convinces and enables to receive Christ. Such people have a new perspective, a new mind-set on life. They trust God, not life’s treasures; they look to their security in heaven, not on earth; they learn to accept, not resent, pain and persecution because God is with them.
As I look forward, I will keep this in mind. Afterall, difficulty should be expected.
While those media dreams have not materialized, they remain and I’m confident God will use a different path.
“As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: it will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” (Isaiah 55: 9-11)
This declaration from God is comforting. God is not a liar (that’s the enemy). If God tells you something in your life will come to pass, believe Him!
While I started this post reflecting on a winding road, I am grateful for my path. I wouldn’t change a thing. I am grateful for the beautiful life God has given me and the amazing people He has allowed me to be in community with and even people He allowed me to simply cross paths with for a season.
God is always good. Some nice moments in the last year include participating in a prize-winning short film, meaningful volunteering at a women’s crisis center, and excitement and vigor to write my first novel.
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” (Psalm 107:1)
I encourage you to draw near to God in this season. What may He be calling you to reframe your vision on?
Be blessed! I’m praying for you!
