God is Greater than the Highs and Lows
G > ^ V
A letter and three strange symbols. What exactly does this mysterious, but poignant string of characters mean? It stands for:
"God is greater than the highs and lows"
When we really think about this simple, but powerful phrase: "God is greater than the highs and lows," it sums up so much about what Heaven's Oasis is about, as a brand and as an entity. What do you think about this phrase adorning Christian apparel? Why?
It's all in our perspective. God has an infinite amount of knowledge, wisdom, love and power at his disposal. He can do anything He wants to do! And since He created everything we see with His own hands, when we are sad or disappointed about something that happens to us on this earth, it's because we don't have the right perspective about what really matters: eternity with Him in heaven. When you think about what really matters - not just for a few days or weeks but forever - then nothing else compares!
Perspective
This simple phrase can really help to put things into perspective. In the same way that it can pull me out of a dark place, it can also help to keep me humble.
"Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth." Colossians 3:2 (ESV)
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)
When You Feel Low
When I am feeling low, I am reminded of God's beautiful love and a greater sense of purpose. Through Christ, our failures become moments of learning. They build us, rather than define us. We are not defined by our failures, our low points, or our misdeeds.
Remember, that Peter routinely failed Jesus... Three times to be exact! But rather than chastise or reject him, Jesus always called Peter into a greater sense of Goodness.
"Peter replied, "Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will." "I tell you the truth," Jesus answered, "This very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times." But Peter declared, "Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you." And all the other disciples said the same." Matthew 26:34
When You Feel High
When I am high, I am reminded that I am not defined by my successes, achievements, or talents. I am a humble servant of God who lives to
Success can be a wonderful feeling. A goal achieved. A dream fulfilled. The feelings of success can be powerful and overwhelming. And in another way, success can be a worldly temptation that leads us wanting more and more. While success is sweet, there is no end game. Often, you're left wanting, when instead, you should be grateful for what you have... Especially the non-worldly possessions (like friends and family) that can so sweetly enrich your life.
Just as much as you aren't defined by your failures, you also aren't defined by your successes. Instead, we strive to channel our achievements through God. God will never leave you wanting more, and success through Him is eternal.
Have a Conversation with Someone Curious
Most importantly, when I wear my "G>^V" shirt, it's an opportunity to subtly catch someone's attention. It's a moment to slow down and appreciate God. It's a chance to share my love for Christ with someone who is searching. It's an opportunity to spread the Word.
It's not often that you come across Christian apparel with such a hidden, but overwhelmingly glorious meaning. It's a way to keep myself focused on God. An aesthetically-pleasing reminder that I follow, obey, and love Him in every way.
God gives to us the best, and in doing so, He is showing acceptance of us. By trusting God, we no longer have to prove ourselves to anyone, even ourselves! God's love will free us from the grind of seeking acceptance and approval. When you accept Christ into your heart, He loves us without question.
When I wear my "God is Greater than the Highs and Lows" t-shirt, it's a sweet reminder that everything is taken care of through the love of Christ. It's no longer a magnifying lens being held over my successes OR my failures - I am simply a servant of Jesus Christ, and he accepts me for who I am.
Remember that God is always there for us through it all. Ups. Downs. Highs. Lows. Even the completely average! We simply need to believe and love our God through it all. Through Him, we can find our approval. We can find our successes. We can find true Love.
Live In Grace, Be The Light.
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