It is always hard to believe that you are seeing things clearly. Perceptions, on a good day, have a tendency to unwrap themselves in our mind, creating myths and the ghosts of fear and doubt. One looks, one evaluates, and then one reaches a preliminary conclusion. It rarely stops there, mulling begins, second guessing starts, and the nuances of one's perceptions begin to take hold.
Key colors often come in after the initial view. These include the motives and trust of the person watched. Do I trust their motives? Do I trust them in anyway, except perhaps to do whatever is in their personal advantage? What are their values and are they consistent? Do they care about anyone other than themselves? Who is their God?
Whatever I think I saw I now color again with my perceptions. My analysis shifts, my conclusion and certainty varies, and our relationship is subtly different.
It is often hard to believe that others correct perceive our motives. When they do it is a very good thing! I recently was able to share a gift with a friend. The gift came out of the blue, and I felt a God tug to pass it on. In his note to me, I knew with certainty that he received it in the spirit with which I offered it. Perceptions color everything.
How do you perceive God? What is your perception of your responsibility to the people around you? Is there a link between God and your role in other people's lives?
Paul recognized that others, even followers of God, would not always perceive things in the way he intended. “Pray also that my…offering…will be accepted in the spirit in which it is given.” (Romans 15.31)
This is often the way things are with those who follow God's leading. Often we do not listen to God's voice, what makes one think we will recognize His actions through people?
Today, I am going to explore and follow God with a fresh and open mind. It is time for a fresh beginning. Want to come along?
