Written by Ann Corley...for the SWC Monthly Newsletter in 2005

Our walk with the Lord is much like a picture puzzle. The beginning is easy, just look for the straight edged pieces to form the border. It is said that if you want an answer to prayer, just give a baby Christian a prayer request. It seems the Lord bends over backward to get them started along the way.

After the border is in place, things get a little more complicated. We begin by separating colors or obvious images (just as we learn to rightly divide the Word of Truth, know those who labor among us, and not be ignorant of the enemy’s devices) but it sometimes still seems impossible. We are given the picture of the finished product to be out guide, just as the Word of God is our guide.

Many times, pieces that look so right just won’t fit no matter how much we think they should. No amount of pushing or manipulating will make something that the manufacturer designed for a given space fit into a space designed for another piece. If we persist in having our way, the piece can become marred and will be an eyesore forever. Remember Jacob’s limp after wrestling with God?

Ever notice how differently people begin working a puzzle? Some empty all the pieces on the table in the beginning and turn them right side up. They are the ones who make an investment, count the cost, and prepare in advance. Others work only from the box. Their life is always puzzling; they don’t know what could be accomplished if they could better see the pieces. Some only take out a handful and then later, another. They, too, don’t have a clear picture. It is as if they are trying to see if they want to continue, not investing enough time to get much benefit, so they can walk away when it "doesn’t work."

As we spend time in His presence, we become more like Him. Have you noticed that when you spend time looking at the puzzle pieces that your mind seemingly takes a picture of the shapes and colors so you can discetn where they are to be placed?time looking at the pule pieces that your mind seemingly takes a picture of the shapes and colors so you can discern where they are to bvtime looking at the puzzle pieces that your mind seemingly takes a picture of the shapes and colors so you can discern where they are to be placed? The colors become more definitive. I find that to be an amazing correlation.

Thankfully, God is merciful and not as rigid as the manufacturer of a puzzle. He will go with Plan B….but it’s not His best.