How we adjust to changing circumstances is greatly determined by our perspective. While I would like to be able to continue with life as I did prior to the COVID-19 restrictions, I really don’t have it too bad.

I well remember the Air Force pilot I became acquainted with years ago who told me of his two-year ordeal as a POW in North Viet Nam. I think of the young teen-age, Anne Frank who with her family hid in a secret annex that is half the size of our apartment for 25 months. I think of the apostle Paul, who spent much of his time in prison, yet wrote letters of encouragement to fellow-believers.

When things are going wrong it is all too easy to focus on what we don’t have, and fail to see what we do have. While I may not be able to freely associate with friends and co-workers; while I have to stay at least six feet from anyone I encounter, there are so many blessings that I have.

I am in a warm apartment. I have food in the fridge, and access to more at the store, I have the ability to reach friends through the phone and computer. I have good health  I have a family that loves me, and a family to love. Above all I have a Savior who is with me every day. And we all have the promise that soon all the troubles of this world will be replaced with the joy of eternity with our Savior.

Paul, who spent many days, months, and years in prison, wrote about perspective. Writing to young Timothy he says: “Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.” I Timothy 6:6-10. He also said, “I have learned in whatever state I am in, to be content.” Philippians 4:11

Paul knew what it was to have much, and to have little. What he had and what he didn’t have did not determine his outlook. He chose to look on the positive side. He chose to look at life as half-full rather than half-empty.

I would encourage you today to look a little higher. Don’t look at what is missing. Look instead at the wonderful blessings that are given us each day by a loving and caring God.

Mike Edge, Conference President