Taking a Step Back to See the Big Picture

Sometimes when we are too close to a situation we have to take a step back so we can really see the big picture.

This past week I took a much-needed extended trip to visit my son in Los Angeles and my writing and travel friend Angela Ruth Strong in Boise. It was long overdue because of Covid and life, but I’m so glad I got away. I’m in a season of my life where things are settled after being stressed and hyper-focused on taking care of my mom. I’m meeting new friends and even starting to date again, but there are still so many unknowns and worry about my future. I needed time away to gain perspective about my life, what I want, and to be reminded of God’s faithfulness.

When Angela showed me this mural in downtown Boise, I couldn’t see the big picture. The giant book above me in this picture was blurred, but I trusted my friend that it was there. I aligned myself with where she said I should be and look what I got?! A beautiful picture I couldn’t see until later when I took a step back.

That’s how it is with God. My week away really reminded me of His promises for my life and the desires of my heart which include serving him through my writing/teaching/speaking, loving people through health coaching and connecting, and experiencing all life has to offer.

I’ve come such a long way to be where I am physically, spiritually, relationally, and financially, I can’t get comfortable now. Now is when I need to press in closer and deeper to the future God has for me even if I can’t see the big picture. Now is when I have to trust even more that His plans and blessings for me are not in my comfort zone, and that he has something much more beautiful planned than I can imagine.

Now is when I need to remind myself that even though I cannot see what the big picture is, I’m exactly where God wants me, and if I’m patient and take a step back, the beautiful mural he has for my life will be breathtaking.