{Lesson 3} You See More When You Stand Up- Series: 7 Life Lessons I Learned in Haiti:

Stand up, lean in, see more.

Our team rode in a truck that was outfitted with benches and rails to hold onto.  Our team leaders stayed at the front of the truck standing up as we rode to the orphanage every day.  So I stood up, too, looking over the cab of the truck.  What a difference in the view!

We were able to see what was ahead and see it before the truck even came to it; little markets, towns, businesses, families, the homeless, the gorgeous views and the poverty; as a panoramic picture and not just passing by as a side shot.  Or an afterthought.

“No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13

I realize this truth is powerful in my life as well.

For example,

• When a trial has been heavy, standing up is a way for me to breathe through it rather than hiding under the covers.  I have found some of God’s greatest blessings this way.
• When I first decided to homeschool, I stood up and asked questions.  I found mentors who were doing what I wanted to be doing.  I stood up and became a part of what was happening, a part of the conversation, not just allowing it to happen.
• I have never regretted standing up for myself when the occasion called for it.  Even when I haven’t had the nerve, standing up helped me find some.  You can’t do that sitting down.
• When I decided to go on this mission trip and saw Haiti as a destination, I stood up and asked questions. It helped me to be transparent.
• When I was teaching my girls the alphabet, I realized standing up was much more fun than sitting down.  It makes you part of the story rather than just an observer. And to save all those memories, I wrote Alphabet Smash.

And he said to me, “Son of man, stand on your feet, and I will speak with you.” Ezekiel 2:1

Standing up (literally and figuratively) allows you to see more, hear more, do more, and learn more.

It allows you to lean into your life.

Be in the moment. And

Purpose your time.

It is an intentional act.  It is intentional living.

You see more standing up.

“Get yourself ready! Stand up and say to them whatever I command you. Do not be terrified by them, or I will terrify you before them… Jeremiah 1:17

How do you stand up in your life?

To Read More in This Series: 7 Lessons I learned in Haiti…..

Lesson One: Being Transparent

Lesson Two: How To Pack For A Mission Trip