Why It's Just as Important as Reality By Phil Cooke, Ph.D. As a television producer and media consultant in Hollywood, perception is my business. I deal in the visual world of products and people, and how they are perceived by the viewing audience. Today, in a media-saturated culture, perception is critical. It's not about facts, it's about perception. As a Christian, I used to look at the issue of perception as a negative, deceitful proposition. Indeed it can be, but like many things, I also learned it has a flip side, as I began to study how Jesus went to great lengths to impact the public perception of his ministry and his purpose on the earth. He actually told people who had been healed not to tell anyone. He carefully chose the men who would be His closest associates. During the height of his popularity, he withdrew to remote places to be alone. He chose the method of his triumphal entry into Jerusalem. When He could have escaped in the garden, he told Peter to stop fighting and quietly allowed Himself to be arrested. During the events that led to his execution, He even controlled the interrogation of Pilate by only responding to certain questions. Jesus was constantly doing the unexpected, because He had a purpose and plan for his life, and he refused to let others determine his destiny or how He would be perceived. But why did He care what people thought? It's Not Just Who You Are - It's How You're Perceived. Jesus understood that perception is a powerful word and has enormous consequences. But how can we control our perception? To what extent can we influence the way others perceive us, and how can we use those techniques to express our faith, and accomplish our calling? One of the greatest criticisms of the Christian faith, is not about principles, but perception. The history of the faith is littered with men and women who may have been sincere and genuine, but because they cared little for how they were perceived, they ended up doing far more damage than good. First - understand that how you are personally perceived is critical. It doesn't matter if you have a passion for witnessing, if people believe you're pushy and an insensitive jerk. Take the time and effort to consider their perceptions, so you and your gifts can be positioned in the best possible light. It's not about ego or manipulation, it's about creating an environment where you're appreciated, not tolerated. Remember - if you don't determine your future, you'll always be at the mercy of others who will. Second - God has called us to be a light within the culture, because light draws people - it's doesn't repel them. Everyday at the office, in school, in our homes, and with our neighbors, we have the opportunity to impact people's perception of God and his ability to impact their lives. And unless they perceive it's ability to make a difference, they'll never take that critical step of faith. But how do we discern the difference between our attempts to influence others for good, and our own ego? That becomes an issue of integrity. Daily pursuing the God of Truth, and seeking to express His purpose in every association, project, or relationship. Only God can truly change hearts, but he allows us the gift of being active in His plan. King David said, "Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God." Understand the power of perception, but never forget that God is ultimately in control. The fact is, it's not an either/or proposition. Who you are is important. Your talent, your gifts, your life before God - are all critical because Truth exists, and God has called us to live at a remarkable level. But you should also never underestimate the value of how you are perceived. Because we're also called to be witnesses of His life, death, and resurrection, and how that message is received by others, can never be taken for granted. http://www.sermonspice.com/videos/16326/you-are-a-miracle Author's Bio: Phil Cooke is a television producer and media consultant to ministries and churches. His new book "Branding Faith," releasing in February by Regal Publishers will change the way churches and ministries use the media. Find out more at www.philcooke.com.