To Know

"But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." - 2 Peter 3:8-9

Perspective – the state of one’s ideas, the facts known to one, etc., in having a meaningful interrelationship.

I learned yesterday in a psychology lecture about the Rosenthal or Pygmalion effect. In short, this effect describes how one’s expectations can influence actions or how results are interpreted. Simply put, if I believe someone is smart, I will treat them accordingly. If they do something smart it will support my belief, and if they do something stupid I am likely to attribute it to something else.

So from our definition, perspective describes how one’s expectations…

“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” – Hebrews 11:1

can influence actions or how results are interpreted.

“…we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” – Romans 5:2-3

If one’s expectations can influence actions and interpretation of results, could you also say that one’s actions and interpretation of results reflects one’s expectations?

Let me hit you with some powerful words from Moses:

“Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands.” – Deuteronomy 7:9

I want that perspective.

iWill:

• pray for stronger faith
• reflect on my actions, my interpretation of events in my life, and if those things demonstrate strong faith

Prayer Requests:

• for our new small group that begins Sunday
• for an eventual source of income
• missionary friends in China, Mexico, Honduras, Nicaragua, Nepal, & the US