So I was surprised when one of my students told me she loved Sundays. In fact, I thought she was nuts. She said she loved waking up Sunday morning knowing it was the beginning of a new week, full of expectation. Wow, what words of wisdom coming from the mouth of a high school senior.

Here’s why our perspectives differed: She thought of Sunday as the first day of the week, while I thought of Sunday as the last day of the week. Since Monday is the first day of my work week, it took up permanent residence in my mind as Day #1.

A Change of Perspective

I tried her perspective. Instead of Sunday being Day #7, I considered it Day #1. Now Monday (and I still don’t like them) became Day #2, making it oddly easier to get through. 

What else can I change my perspective about?

People I Encounter

“And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” 2 Corinthians 5:15-17 NIV

             – What is our view of Christ? Is He God? Man? A prophet? Far away? or here?

My job

“Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:11-13 ESV

My circumstances (keep things in perspective)

“But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if at some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you.” Philippians 3:13b-15 NIV

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV

Church

“May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 15:5-6 ESV

          – Not in my strength, but in God’s strength

          – I can be changed through the endurance and encouragement of God