Our perspective determines our contentment or pleasure in life.
It really is that simple. It is not easy, but it is simple. If the focus of our thoughts is all the things that have gone wrong, let us down, disappointed us, or hurt us, we are likely to experience more depression, sadness, and hopelessness. On the other hand, if our focus is on the things that really matter, the things that are eternal, we are more likely to rise above the troubles that come with life here on earth.
Colossians 3:2 says, "Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth."
The Apostle Paul reminds believers in Jesus Christ that our citizenship is not of earth. In Philippians 3:20-21 we read, "For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ; who will transform the body of our humble state into conformity with the body of His glory, the the exertion of the power that He has even to subject all things to Himself."
When we take on this eternal perspective, a heavenly perspective, we realize that both the bad things and good things that occur in this earthly life are temporary. So temporary, in fact, that one day, when we are given our new glorified bodies and are living in the Presence of Jesus Christ, we will look back on our earthly suffering as a mere blip on a radar screen.
Romans 8:18 reminds us of this hope producing truth: "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us."
I encourage you to pay attention to your focus. What thoughts permeate your mind? What types of things are you pursuing with intense energy? What matters the most to you? Are you able to look at earthly troubles as distractions that are temporary? Are you able to turn your thoughts to things above?
I read about three inscriptions over the doors at the Milan Cathedral in Italy. Over the door to the right is this motto, “All that pleases is but for a moment.” Over the door to the left is this motto, “All that troubles is but for a moment.” Over the center door is the motto, “Nothing is important save that which is eternal.”
Dig into the Word of God daily to read and meditate on a
treasure trove of things that matter for eternity. Over time, as you get better and better at focusing your thoughts on things of God and His eternal Kingdom, you will find it much easier to feel content and happy. Start this good habit of thinking today and watch your thought life be transformed.