A Shift in Perspective

The kitchen countertops were covered with ingredients, bowls, and cooking utensils. I started cooking in the late afternoon, consumed with preparing an elaborate meal. After I-don’t-know-how-long, my father-in-law stepped into the kitchen.

“Ta-da” he announced.

Lights flicked on.

Turns out, I’d been cooking in the dark.

It was amazing what a difference a shift in perspective made to the process. Spiritually, I’ve found this to be true too.

So often what I need most immediately and fiercely is not a change in circumstance or a new answer to prayer, but a shift in perspective. I need to recognize God’s presence, right there with me in the middle of my mess.

About Shift by Abby McDonald

Abby McDonald’s book Shift is helpful not only for recognizing God’s presence, but also understanding the implications of having a perspective that aligns with who He is. Walking through a variety of struggles and seasons we tend to face, McDonald contrasts the natural perspectives we tend to take with a view illuminated by our Savior.

For instance, McDonald digs into the difference between obeying God based on the results we anticipate versus the next step of faith He asks us to take. In another chapter, she explores the views we hold in reaction to God saying “no,” then reorients us to seeing His grace even in that type of circumstance.

Some of the topics addressed include:

• Faith in times of uncertainty
• God’s plan versus our plans
• When we need to stay put
• Continuing through the daily grind
• The fruit of suffering

Written in a clear, engaging manner, Shift is a surprisingly “light” read even though heavy, deep topics are addressed. Several easy-to-read charts create opportunities to contrast different perspectives. McDonald uses illustrations from life and shares how God has shifted her own perspective. The focus of the book is clearly on God’s character and what goodness we find when we look to Him.

It’s hard to choose only a few quotes from this precious book because it means so much to me in ways I’m not sharing on the internet just yet.

Here are a few peeks into the perspective Shift offers:

• Instead of expecting God’s best, I ask him to protect me from the worst.
• Hardship causes us to see God’s presence as a gift rather than an entitlement.
• Sometimes staying in the place God gives us takes more faith than moving a mountain.
• When our love for God motivates us, everything else falls into place.
• Our focus must shift from changing results to His unchanging love.

If you couldn’t already tell, I heartily recommend Shift, to anyone, anytime. But, if you’re in a season of struggle or transition, whether for obvious reasons or causes you can’t figure out, Shift is especially for you.

<I read a pre-release e-version of this book in order to write this honest review in a timely manner>.

You can find Shift through multiple retailers, including Amazon. Abby McDonald’s website is also a great place to find godly encouragement (and get a taste of her brilliant writing if you haven’t read her work before!)

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