We’re in the process of building bookshelves right now. After we installed a particular piece, I stood back to look at the progress of the overall unit. From one vantage point, everything looked fine. But, just a few steps to the left and a minor change in perspective, I wasn’t sure if something was out of alignment. I danced back and forth for a few minutes trying to discern if there was an issue that needed to be addressed or if it was simply an issue of perspective. Then it occurred to me — measure it. I grabbed my trusty tape measure and double checked everything. All numbers were exactly as they should be. Thankfully, the issue was just a matter of being an optical illusion brought on by a change in perspective.
The bible is like the measuring tape I used to calibrate my way through a confusing situation. When life happens and we find ourselves in unsure territory, relying on our own line of sight and perspective can give us false information. False information can lead to incorrect assumptions and wrong actions. So, the next time life throws you a curve ball, break out your bible and navigate by what the word of God tells you to do. It’s your measuring tape to keep you on the right path in life. Just like a carpenter needs to trust his measurements, we need to measure our lives by the word of God and trust that He will always steer us in the right direction.