“My eyes are ever on the Lord, for only he will release my feet from the snare.”
Psalm 25:15, NIV

I’m a third-generation artist, and for an artist, a camera is an indispensable tool. My introduction to serious photography began in college. I’m not sure how many cameras I’ve owned since then, but I sport my camera like a wristwatch―not wanting to miss a single moment of God’s spontaneous entries on the pages of my life.

Even now as I write, a butterfly has flown into a spider’s web outside the window only inches from my desk. Because my camera is within reach, I’m able to capture another divinely orchestrated moment. This unassuming creature is oblivious to the fact that it’s held captive by not one, but two predators―a spider and the unrelenting lens of my camera.

The butterfly sits motionless as if to assess its unexpected turn of events. I too am still. It flutters, but only for a split second. It exhibits no panic or frantic display of energy, simply one brief effort to see if indeed it is caught. Powerless to fly, it submits to its tethered state.  I continue to maintain my vigil. Then a sudden burst of wind shakes the web. Its captive is set free.

When life throws unexpected difficulties our way, we often spend countless hours and energy trying to free ourselves from the discomfort. Perhaps, like the butterfly, we’d spend less time in captivity—and with minimal aftereffects—if we’d choose to be still and allow God to intervene. Our unyielding efforts only ensnare us further and cause us to miss what God wants us to see.

God desires for us to know him. He desires to capture our hearts through any means, at any place, and at any time. He wants to manifest himself not only through the obvious but through what, upon first glance, we perceive as ordinary.

Take a second look at your surroundings and allow life to come clearly into focus. Look beyond the obvious for God to speak, and wait expectantly. He longs to capture your heart.

“I draw my greatest pleasure, not from capturing the moment, but from the moment capturing me.”

―Starr Ayers