Perspective

And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. – Hebrews 12:5 ESV

Greek
ὀλιγώρει/oligōrei: to habitually neglect or make light of

Why It Matters
In May of 1996, eight people died while caught in a sudden blizzard near the summit of Mt. Everest. Their stories are tragic, and although climbing the tallest mountain in the world is always dangerous, experts agree the danger and high death toll could have been prevented. An analysis of the events from the climb reveals a complete disregard for the “drop dead” time to ascend the mountain. The guides who accompanied the two parties of climbers set a 2:00 pm deadline to be at the summit. Anyone who hadn’t made the final push to the top by then would have to return to base camp IV. However, this plan was not heeded – even by the guides themselves – and some climbers were attempting their ascent after 2:30 pm. At the time, the decision to neglect the safety plan was celebrated by hikers who were only 650 meters from reaching their lifelong dream, but in hindsight, it’s clear their limited perspective blinded them to reality.
There are moments in our lives when we also make decisions with limited perspective. Thankfully, the Bible declares that God, who sees the big picture of our lives, has given us his word as a “safety plan” of sorts for us to adhere to. But when our vision for how life should look seems handcuffed by that safety plan, we’re tempted to oligōrei (habitually neglect or make light of) his discipline. Farsighted faith in God’s protection and care will trust that even though we might not understand it all, we should heed the safety plan of God’s commands to us. He sees when unexpected storms are approaching and when the elements will need to be weathered before moving forward. Sometimes it may not seem fair, but if our response is to oligōrei his discipline, we reveal that we trust our perspective over his love for us. May we be people who actively trust our God to navigate life’s storms on our behalf, and allow worship to be our response to his care.

Prayer
I admit, Lord, that sometimes my circumstances lead me to spiritual apathy. It’s easy for me to take control of my life and navigate my own path. But I recognize just how dangerous this is, and I repent of needing things done my way. Give me your perspective I pray in Jesus’ name.

Application
How will I submit to what the Lord is convicting me of?