On the Journey
By Rick Hamlin

Pray for a God's-Eye View

Ever get so full up—or distracted—that you can’t see your way through a problem? Times like that, I pray for a God’s-eye view: Lord, help me see things your way.

The other day I was looking out my window down at someone parallel parking. I could see the man back in to the space, bumping up against the curb, then pull forward, turn his wheel again and bump up to the car behind. He pulled forward and then backed up next to the space just to see if he could fit.

“There’s plenty of room,” I wanted to shout. His window was closed and I’m not sure he would have heard me. I opened my window and called out. No response. “Keep the steering wheel straight. Back up. OK, now! Turn now!” I wanted to say.

He finally gave up and drove off.

I closed the window. It must be so obvious to God, like me looking down at that guy trying to park. The problems are probably not so big if you can see them God’s way. The curbs that I bump against, the anxiety that holds me back, perhaps the willingness to give up too soon, all of that must be obvious.

If you’ve ever parallel-parked, you probably know that the most important thing is how you position yourself before you ever turn the steering wheel.

“I’m ready to try again, God,” I’ll say. “Just help me make sure I’m headed the right way.”

Rick Hamlin is the executive editor of Guideposts magazine and the author of 10 Prayers You Can't Live Without. To learn more about the book and explore your own prayer journey, watch this video.

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Your Comments (3)

Thanks for the "great" insight on God's view of us...
I love it!!! How we struggle trying to get things "right"..
the curbs of life can bring us to our knees and we wonder "God, where are you? Why can't I hear your voice?" Thanks for sharing...

Thank you Lord for this mornings devotion and I too pray that I may have God's Eye View on my circumstances. It is so hard to make decisions when fear seems to want to overtake me. When will I learn to continually rest in your arms knowing that you will care for me. The fear of no place of my own, only social security to live on makes me act like a chicken with it's head cut off running around not knowing where it goes. Give me the strength to call upon you each time the fear grabs a hold on me, so that I may feel your presence in these times that are so difficult. I cannot imagine life for those who do not know you. I pray for them and all who hunger and thirst for the living waters.

Such wise words. As I cope with disappointing news and frightening prospects, I will gather my strength and gladly accept the emotional support of my children and friends - - and I will pray for guidance to move forward in the best and most positive direction.