Who We Think We Are and Who We Really Are
“Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; continue in these things, for in doing this you will save both yourself and your hearers. ”
As a minister, I am blessed to know many people’s stories intimately. You learn someone’s life story from them and those around them. It is interesting how often a life story changes depending on who is telling it. Other people’s perception of me gives my life a myriad of versions. Learning to share the truth of our personal story is harder than it sounds. Some people know me as a pastor, while others know me as a family member. Some knew me in High School or college. Each remembrance witnesses me in a different setting and experience. We even see ourselves differently depending on the situation. Learning to see ourselves clearly is essential to developing spiritual maturity.
Perception is powerful. It shapes reality and determines how we understand our life experiences. In his article, “Why Your Perception Dictates Your Results,” Zaid K. Dahhaj helps us understand the need to address our perceptions and who we are in this world. Dahhaj points out, “What I focus on will dictate what I see more of.” Our perceptions are controlled by what we think about. If we focus on how weak we are, we make that a self-fulfilling prophecy. If we think we are emotionally and spiritually strong, then we can face challenges with courage.
Yet, as Dahhaj points out, “My perception is subject to error.” Just because we think we are strong doesn’t mean we aren’t weak. Unhealthy perceptions lead us to lie to ourselves and others. Our perceptions help us evaluate the present and plan for the future. While our perceptions will never be perfect, the more we learn who we truly are, the more we will grow emotionally and spiritually. For example, focusing on one huge mistake in life, rather than on the hundreds of caring moments, will warp your perception of yourself in an unrecognizable and destructive way.
Today, prayerfully consider how you perceive yourself. Now think about how others perceive you. Do you believe there is a big disparity between those views? The more honestly we perceive ourselves, the better we can learn and grow in emotional and spiritual maturity. Spiritual maturity often requires emotional challenges. Facing ourselves as we are can be humbling, even painful, but it leads to a deeper relationship with God. Remember that honesty also means remembering not just the disappointments, but the many good and caring moments.
