Break Open Your Box

Life is far more precious than we fully understand. It is the greatest gift we will ever receive. If we’re being honest, life is also complex and intricate—a bit puzzle-esque. Think about it: The seconds, minutes, hours, days, months, years, and ultimately decades of our existence are a vast array of pieces. No one is like the other, as they all occupy their respective space.

When putting together a puzzle, I find it wise to implement a plan. The majority of puzzlers initially focus on constructing the border; this strategy allows the other pieces to better fall into place. Applying that same discipline in life helps us to build a solid, concrete framework of role models and influences, relationships, vocation, and faith. Then, through daily experiences, we fill in the empty gaps to complete our overall big picture.

We can certainly go rogue and ditch the idea of interlocking all edge pieces together. However, by substituting inner pieces to comprise the perimeter, we may find the finished product unrecognizable. I believe that just as jigsaw designers intend for their artwork to appear a particular way, God has a specific purpose for each and every one of us, a picture our lives are designed to create. And if our own individual puzzles are awry, how can we confidently bring a polished piece ready to integrate and proudly form the larger puzzle of mankind?

Herein lies the problem. Just as puzzle renegades may assume their vision of beauty is greater than the artist’s, we have indicated our imagination is superior to God’s divine plan. Funny, isn’t it, how the majority of us don’t live past eighty, while the Creator of the universe has been around since the beginning of time—yet we carry on as though we’re the ones who know best. Even though we can’t see the destination, we must trust in the journey. Once we agree to swallow our pride and work in communion with Him, we will finally begin to see our lives take shape. I believe that when we come to realize and fully appreciate His will for us, we will be awed by His mastery.

As you navigate these pages, my goal is for you to become aware of your own God-given pieces and to learn how and where to search for the missing ones. Know that I am praying for you in hope that you tear down your walls, invite Christ into your heart, and connect your pieces according to His will. I promise you that your dreams are nothing compared to what He has in store for you, and there will always be something missing without Him by your side.

Perspective is the key that unlocks true happiness. Each day you wake up, intentionally replace the questions of “What do I want for myself?” and “How can I make myself happy?” with “What does He want for me?” and “How can I make Him happy?” With that selfless and newly discovered conviction, break open your box for God. Let His creativity piece together the rest of your life. Offer up your time, talents, and treasures, and allow Him to use you as His instrument to enrich the lives of others.