The Truth of Perception

Not long after I started as a pastor in my first district my head elder pulled me to the side and told me, "Pastor, perception is 99% of reality."

We do not, as a general rule, develop our ideas of other people over a long period of time. Don't agree with me? Then why aren't job interviews years long in multiple settings? Why do we consider "speed dating" a realistic way to find your "soul mate"? Why do we cross the street when we feel threatened or uncomfortable with those who are quickly approaching our little sidewalk square? You've even probably defended a friend or family member before with, "They're really cool/nice/fun once you get to know them."

The truth is perception really does form 99% of our initial reality. (I say "initial reality" because our perceptions do change over time.) Your actions, dress, mannerisms, demeanor, posture, breath, hair color, facial expressions, and words all carry an overwhelming weight in developing perception. The places you go, the people you hang with, all say certain things about you whether we like it or not.

Some people act like they don't care about these things when secretly we almost all do. Some say Jesus didn't care about who He was hanging with, but I believe He intentionally looked for the perceived low-lifes and spent time with them. He knew the perception of God was already one of unapproachability. He wanted that changed. He knew everyone already thought God was on the side of rich, the beautiful, the physically healthy, the well-dressed and the powerful. He meant to show God is in love with everybody.

The best way to change the perception of people is spending time getting to know them, no matter how difficult it seems to start. Usually we find at least one thing we like about everyone. (Although, admittedly, it may take a great deal of work and patience with some.)

The best way to change the perception we have of God (and we all have one) is spending time getting to know Him. It seems so simple and still it can be so hard to start. But God promises if you search for Him He will not hide from you. He promises you'll find Him if you put all your heart into the search. And finally, I guarantee your perception of God will change (whatever it is) the more time you spend with Him. Let God change your perception of Him into a literal reality.