We live in a fallen world, as sheep among wolves. We are to be shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves. (Matthew 10:6)
In ancient days, serpents were used as a symbol of wisdom. Being shrewd as serpents includes accurately assessing people and situations, anticipating events, and handling situations with good judgment. Now, our symbol is more likely an owl.
If we act on a quick evaluation of a situation, we may create unnecessary conflict and lose the opportunity to honor our Lord. We often need to reframe our perspective of reality in order to have a healthy point of view or take a godly action. Healthy reframing is a skill we need to live life well, both temporally and spiritually. It is a skill that helps us see a more constructive interpretation, helps us forgive, and helps us see the Lord in the midst of our mess.
“Cognitive reframing is a psychological technique that consists of identifying and then disputing irrational or maladaptive thoughts. Reframing is a way of viewing and experiencing events, ideas, concepts and emotions to find more positive alternatives.” (Wikipedia)
The Word of God is Filled with Healthy Reframing
James tells us to consider it joy when we encounter various trials. (James 1:2). We’re not to misconstrue the trial itself as joyful, but, rather, consider it joy because of the good that will come out of testing our faith.
Paul tells us the Lord will use all things for good for Christians. (Romans 8:28). That’s not because “all things” are, themselves, good, but because the Lord is sovereign and He will bring good out of the bad. (See What’s So Good About Bad? and When a Loss is Really a Win)
Here’s another: Someone’s action caused you great harm, yet God tells you to forgive him or her. If you focus on the action, on your hurt, it may seem impossible to forgive. But if you reframe your perspective to see the person as a flawed human being, rather like yourself, forgiveness is much easier.
Honest View of Reality
We must, however, start with reality. We’re sunk if we act on a very inaccurate view of what is happening. Even worse, we can be led astray spiritually.
If we use reframing to remake reality, we are on the wrong road!
“Everyday, in everyway, I’m getting better and better.” Oh oh. Really?!
“Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; who substitute darkness for light and light for darkness; who substitute bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!” (Isaiah 5:20)
Hezekiah
Hezekiah is a great example of how to forthrightly view and react to reality and reframe your perspective to include God. (2 Chronicles 32)
When Hezekiah saw that the Assyrians intended to make war on Jerusalem, he cut off the supply of water from the springs outside the city, rebuilt the wall, erected towers on it, built another outside wall, and appointed military officers.
Hezekiah acted on his clear view of reality.
Then he encouraged the people:
“Be strong and courageous, do not fear or be dismayed because of the king of Assyria nor because of all the horde that is with him; for the one with us is greater than the one with him. With him is only an arm of flesh, but with us is the Lord our God to help us and to fight our battles.” And the people relied on the words of Hezekiah king of Judah.” (2 Chronicles 32:7–8)
Hezekiah acknowledged the reality of the horde of Assyrians, and reminded the people that God is greater.
What we are to do
Be realistic about your situation, and the people in your life. Ask the Lord to help you accurately see.
Reframe your interpretation to bring God into your circumstances.
