Back in my high school days I became interested in photography. I was asked by our yearbook editor if they furnished the camera would I be interested in taking a week class during the summer to help with the yearbook.
At first, I was inclined to say no but when I learned that this would take place at Northeast (now ULM) and the yearbook staffs from all over North Louisiana would be there I said yes. Our yearbook staff was predominately female. If this was the case for all other schools then there would be lots of girls there that week.
I did not come away from that week with any new girlfriends but I did leave with an appreciation for the art of photography. This interest was later developed when I entered Louisiana College and became really good friends with a guy name Robert Willie. Now Robert was a real photographer who in later years developed his own business.
Robert taught me a lot about photography and helped me get a job in the camera department at H.J. Wilsons in Alexandria. It was there I was able to buy a Pentax 35mm camera. Through those years we had some great times taking photos at different events to just cruising the countryside looking for odd trees and old barns or houses.
One of my biggest frustrations with photography was that it didn’t matter how hard I tried, it could be the most beautiful sunset or vibrant colors of a rainbow, the photos were never as good as the real picture. I would get so frustrated. I would see some beautiful sight and take numerous pictures and when they were developed – disappointment.
The truth is that there is a vast difference between the picture and reality. As I grew older, I finally realized that’s just the way it is and to relish in the photo being good. Let me stop right here and say I was not a great photographer. I was probably not a good photographer. I just got lucky every once in a while, and took some nice photos.
I want you to think with me about this thought – have you ever noticed the disturbing difference between what the Bible says we are to be and what in reality we really are. Let’s look at three different Bible verses to begin with.
First John 5:4, “For everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that overcomes the world, even our faith.”
Romans 8:37, “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.
First John 4:14, “But whosoever drinks of the water I give him will never thirst.”
The brutal truth is that my life, the picture I take with the actions of my life, is nowhere near anything like that. I struggle constantly. I give into temptation often. There are times the world failure more describes me than the word victorious.
So that raises the question: How do I bridge the gap from what God says I can be to what I really am? Three simple truths to live by will help.
One, by faith accept God’s promises. The thing to remember is God’s promises are not limited to the past, nor altered by time, and they are not affected by circumstances.
Two, by faith learn to abide in God’s promises. You find His promises in the Word. Make it a practice to abide in the scripture. They are purposeful and practical for our lives.
Three, by faith begin to act upon God’s promises. Simply put learn obedience. He will not let you down.
The truth is that God already has provided the bridge to this gap. You just have to trust Him.
