The Whole Picture (by Cathe Laurie)

“For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known” (1 Corinthians 13:12 KJV).

Our Perspective Is Not Complete

Do you remember the funhouse mirrors at the fair? You know, those old, warped mirrors that mess with how you look? Some mirrors are ridiculous, but some, I’ve gotta say, aren’t half bad. The lighting’s kind, the angle’s flattering, and suddenly I’m thinking I look pretty darn good—maybe even a little slimmer! And then I go to the next one and it hits all the wrong places—my hips are huge, my face is blown out, and I can’t tell where one curve stops and another begins!

Can you imagine if we had to form our image of ourselves based on those crazy versions?

Paul’s Words: [We] Know In Part 

Paul says, in 1 Corinthians, that that’s how we see life—kind of distorted, like looking in a mirror that’s never quite right.

“For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known” (1 Corinthians 13:12 KJV).

Even Paul, with his big Jesus moment on the road to Damascus, says there are times when he’s only got pieces of the puzzle. “I know in part . . .”

What Paul Teaches Us

We’re only getting part of the story. We grab bits of truth here and there—a verse that hits home, a good talk with a friend, or those rare moments when things just make sense. But the whole deal, the big picture, the vast understanding of the spiritual realm? It’s still fuzzy.

Knowing we only see “in part” keeps us humble. If Paul, with all his wisdom, clearly states he didn’t have it ALL figured out, why should we act like we do? Whether we’re talking about the latest internet tirade, side bar matters of faith, or political agendas, we need to listen more, question our own ideas, and give others a break.

“Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom” (Proverbs 11:2 NLT)

Pride will trip us up, but staying humble keeps us wise.

In a world that wants quick fixes and total certainty, Paul’s words keep us grounded. It’s okay to not have all the answers. In fact, it’s wise to admit that we do not! Keep seeking, stay open, and trust that one day, that foggy funhouse mirror is going to break, and we will see everything clearly. But until that day, know that our view is distorted and incomplete.

Keep it humble, my friend. In the big matters of salvation and eternal life, we can be certain. But through the matters that are not as clear, stay grounded and lean on God.

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Cathe Laurie is the founder and director of the Virtue women’s ministry. She is also a featured speaker on The Virtue Podcast, at Harvest events, and the author of As I See It. You can find her weekly articles here on harvest.org.