How to Build a Puzzle

A few of my nieces and nephews spent some time at our house this past weekend. One of our winter family traditions is to work puzzles together. While they were here, I let them choose the puzzle after they shot down my 500-piece suggestion. Naturally, they chose a 1,000-piece puzzle, worked on it for thirty minutes, and then moved on. My daughter and I have been left with the task of completing what we collectively started.

As Cate and I have worked on the puzzle this week, I have felt the Holy Spirit reminding me of Kingdom life principles displayed through the process of completing a puzzle.

Consider the following advice on how to build a puzzle.

• Use a firm foundation. Puzzles must be built on flat, sturdy surfaces with room for the puzzle to grow. They can’t be in crowded areas or in a space you will soon need. Nor can a puzzle be completed in dark, unlit areas.

• Start with the basics. Start with what you know. Start where you feel comfortable.

• Take things one step at a time. Your actions compound with repetition. What looks impossible at first soon becomes manageable.

• Pace yourself. There is no rush. Enjoy the moment. Be present. Savor.

• Be patient with the step-by-step progression. This is where the value is found.

• Trust the process. Let it expand your mind and change you.  

• Keep the goal in mind. Use it as reference.

• Realize your tendency to think “inside the box”. Not everything is at it seems. Remember, you don’t know what you don’t know.

• Celebrate the little wins. Success breeds success.

• Teamwork is more enjoyable, encouraging, and productive than working solo.

• Rest. Taking a break refreshes your vision and renews your resolve.

• Finish what you start.

Now read the list again. This time read it as advice on how to create healthier habits. Read it as advice on deepening your relationship with the Father.

Body, mind, and spirit are inextricably connected, just as the Lord intended. Biblical principles can be applied to any area of your life as true wellness is found only in the Father.

“My son, don’t forget my teaching but let your heart keep my commands; for they will bring you many days, a full life, and well-being” (Proverbs 3:1-2).

An in-process Charlie Brown Christmas puzzle