07.12.24

How to Tell if Your Perception Is Accurate

Have you ever changed your mind about something? What led to that shift? Have you ever had a mistaken impression of someone or something, only to discover it wasn’t what you thought?

In life, we sometimes make poor judgment calls. While some may have little impact, others can lead to significant decisions with negative consequences.

A friend’s well-intended warning might feel like an invasion or judgment. Acts of love can sometimes be misinterpreted as control. Conversely, someone who appears good may harbor hidden motives. Misjudgments can happen in both directions.

So, how do we navigate the fine line between reality and misperception? How do we distinguish truth from falsehood, good from bad? Are all decisions as clear-cut as they seem, or do some challenge our simplistic, binary views?

Spirituality is one area that can evoke very different responses. These responses are often shaped by emotions, cultural messages, and past experiences, rather than reason, reflection, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit and God’s Word.

Christianity is counter-cultural and counter-intuitive. Our minds naturally gravitate toward immediate gratification, self-interest, and pleasure-seeking, often opposing the true way of loving ourselves and others.

Our wisest selves emerge when we connect with the Mastermind of the universe, the Creator of all things, who is all-knowing—God Almighty! Only through this connection can we perceive a broader reality.

Jeremiah 33:3 says, “Call to me and I will answer you and tell 

you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” 

Proverbs 14:12 warns, “There is a way that appears to be right, 

but in the end it leads to death.” 

Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us, “‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are 

your ways my ways,’ declares the Lord. ‘As the heavens are higher than the earth, 

so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”’

As human beings, we like to believe we’re right. But are we always? This post encourages you to reflect on your beliefs and perceptions. Could it be that you’re holding onto lies that prevent you from living the abundant life you’re meant to live?

Give yourself the chance to scrutinize your beliefs and thoughts with an open mind, guided by the truth of Scripture and the Holy Spirit through prayer, silent reflection in God’s presence, and even coaching.

At PAL – Pursuing the Abundant Life, we’re here to facilitate and hold space for these reflections. Through self-discovery questions, we help you rethink and evaluate your life, your way of being, and your actions in this world. Many discover lies, false or limiting beliefs, and misperceptions that hinder them from living abundantly.

Coaching offers a golden opportunity to evaluate yourself and your life, identify areas needing transformation, and align your life with your aspirations and best self. For Christians, our ideal is Christ, and we strive to reflect His likeness. Sometimes, we miss out on abundant living because we’ve forgotten or are not applying biblical principles as we should.

When we re-examine ourselves and realign our lives with biblical principles, we can improve any area of struggle and experience new levels of happiness and success. It’s not magic; it’s obedience to God’s Word, combined with a deeper understanding and action.

Transformation is simple yet challenging! It doesn’t come without some pain and change, but as Romans 12:2 urges, we must renew our minds to be transformed: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.”

Ready to take the Romans 12 challenge head-on? Join us! Through coaching, we can help you renew your mind and transform your life.

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