1. Don’t force a fit. If something is meant to be, it will come together naturally.

2. When things aren’t going so well, take a break. Every-thing will look different when you return.

3. Be sure to look at the big picture. Getting hung up on the little pieces leads to frustration.

4. Perseverance pays off. Every important puzzle went together bit by bit, piece by piece.

5. When one spot stops working, move to another. But be sure to come back later (see #4).

6. The creator of the puzzle gave you the picture as a guidebook.

7. Variety is the spice of life. It’s the different colors and patterns that make the puzzle interesting.

8. Working together with friends and family makes any task fun.

9. Establish the border first. Boundaries give a sense of security and order.

10. Don’t be afraid to try different combinations. Some matches are surprising.

11. Take time often to celebrate your successes, even little ones.

12. Anything worth doing takes time and effort. A great puzzle can’t be rushed.

—Sermon Fodder

“Wisdom is before him that hath understanding; but the eyes of a fool are in the ends of the earth.” —Proverbs 17:24