Framing Matters

We are entering the season of pictures. Celebrations abound, and we long to remember moments, encapsulating poignant memories of time with loved ones. The best pictures still find their way to prints, framed and on display, even in this digital age. When is the last time you really looked at a picture frame? Chances are, unless you were shopping for a new one, most don’t catch your eye – unless there is a flaw. Have you ever seen a frame that wasn’t joined correctly at the corners? Or one that was bent or scratched? It’s hard to see the picture for the frame.

Frames are designed to enhance the beauty of the subject being framed, whether a painting, sketch or picture. The design and color is usually selected with the star of the show, the main picture, in mind. However, if a flaw or imperfection exists on the frame, it can quickly become the most visible.

Frames are much like our perspectives. Our experiences shape us – our view of ourselves, others, and the world around us. They can enrich or embitter us, and we alone get to choose. People will certainly let us down; hurt and abuse abounds because we live in a fallen world. We must allow God – through the lens of His Word – to reshape and heal any misaligned perspectives we carry.

If the frame represents perspective, what picture are you and I carrying?  We carry the gospel with us; Jesus should be the picture that others see when they are with us. Our frames – they get bent up, twisted and scraped by this world. But unlike that clearance frame on the discount aisle, God heals, redeems and somehow makes those broken places beautiful – for our good and His glory, so that we can share Him with a world that doesn’t even acknowledge its brokenness.

I’m challenged today to ask God to renew my mind as I soak in His Word, to fix the broken areas of my perspective, aligning my thoughts with His. I don’t want to sit in apathy on the clearance shelf; rather, I want my life to bring God glory from a place of victory, surrender and love. Won’t you join me today? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” Psalm 51:10 (NKJV)