As a young boy, my mom would often entertain me with coloring books that first required me to connect the dots before I was allowed to color the picture the numbered dots would produce.
At first blush, I had no idea what lay beneath the surface of the numbers and what image would soon emerge.
Over the years, Mom found more advanced coloring books and I got better at visualizing the more complex caricatures.
I no longer drew straight limes from dot to dot, but drew curved lines to more accurately depict the art beneath the surface.
Our lives as well are intricately connected by dots — our unique circumstances. Only we’re talking hundreds of dots that make up the story that unfolds over our lifetime.
I’m still connecting the dots, but have no doubt of the intricate image. You see my life is nearing the final chapter or two or three or four perhaps.
God has allowed me to color in the picture along the way as well. At least I can sense certain shades of what I’ve experienced and taste what lies ahead.
Yes, He has refined me over the decades, and I trust much of who I am has pleased Him.
Wherever you are in your journey, I recommend you occasionally look back at those dots that have, hopefully, helped you grow in your relationship with God and those He graciously places in your path.
It all has taken place for His purpose as He refines you as well. Then again, you may doubt His existence or at least believe He cannot possibly be that involved in your life.
Let’s turn to Scripture and listen to the poetic thoughts of King David found in Psalm 19:9-14.
“The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever, the ordinances of the Lord are sure and altogether righteous. They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb. By them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward. Who can discern his errors? Forgive my hidden faults. Keep your servant also from willful sins; may they not rule over me. Then will I be blameless, innocent of great transgression. May the words of my mouth and the meditationof my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.”
King David was not perfect, but his words certainly present a heart that was near to God’s heart.
There’s no doubt in my mind that this chosen King of Israel led an obedient life that was pleasing to His Father in Heaven.
As we connect the dots of our lives, we would be wise to consider King David’s example.
Let me conclude with these words found in Hebrews 12:1-2:
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”