Knowing What to Magnify and What to Minimize

 

I read a lot of children’s books to my first graders and to my grandchildren, but one particular book, Ladybug at Orchard Avenue, has left a lasting impression on me.

The highly magnified pictures in this book reveal a ladybug and an ant fighting over which insect will eat the aphids they both desire.  Illustrations alone turn this very simple book into a frightening adventure. Because of extreme magnification, an otherwise miniature ant looks like a monster from a sci-fi movie and the ladybug, one of nature’s cuter insects, ceases to be attractive.

The ladybug’s fate seems uncertain until the very end of the story. The larger than life illustrations definitely set the tone for and increase the tension in the story. So, why, you might ask, did this have such an impact on me?  It reminded me that the way I look at things determines my perceptions, thoughts, reactions, and even my expectations.

I realized that there are times when I use an invisible “magnifying glass” on circumstances or people that are better seen just as they are. Even more importantly, I became aware that the beauty of some things only becomes enhanced when magnified many times.

The Bible gives a list of things better seen in enhanced detail.

“…Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.” Philippians 4:8 NLT 

I’m a list maker so I decided to make a list of things worthy of praise to God. My list includes answered prayers and examples of God’s provision and care in my life

When I find myself feeling anxious, worried, angry, or fearful, I have come to realize that I have been examining a situation in larger detail than is beneficial.

I have learned that reading my “worthy of praise” list moves my focus and changes my perspective immediately to one of faith, thankfulness, and anticipation of what God will do in my current situation.  This is not my original remedy, but God’s.

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;” Philippians 4:6 NKJV

A great “magnifying glass mentor” is Mary, the earthly mother of Jesus.

Humanly speaking, Mary found herself in what some would call a real pickle. She faced serious consequences for pregnancy before marriage and was most likely subjected to ridicule for claiming that the child she was carrying was from God. Her fiance’ contemplated breaking off the engagement.

However, she very deliberately decided where to focus her thoughts.

“ …Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord,…” Luke 1:46 NKJV

Mary’s praise continues, “… And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.  For He who is mighty has done great things for me, And holy is His name.  And His mercy is on those who fear Him From generation to generation.” Luke 1:46,47,49,50 NKJV

This is the thankful praise of a woman who focused her magnifying glass on our mighty, holy, and merciful God and the great things He had done for her!  As a result, her spirit rejoiced, she was peaceful in the face of uncertainty and she finished her assignment from God!

What are you going through right now?

What will you magnify?

I often pray …

Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things, [And] revive me in Your way. – Psalm 119:37 NKJV

 

 
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