Seeing Others Clearly: Aligning Our Perspective with God’s
Pastor Victoria Sowell
Trusting in God’s plan is transformative for how we view not only our own lives but also the people around us. Proverbs 3:6-7 invites us to, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." When we let God’s wisdom shape our vision, it impacts how we interact with and see others. This shift leads us to view people through lenses of grace, wisdom, and eternity—a perspective that transforms relationships and aligns our hearts with God’s.
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The Gospel Changes How We See Others
In 2 Corinthians 5:16-20, Paul reminds the church in Corinth of the transformative power of Jesus’ death and resurrection. He writes, “So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view…Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This call to see others through the lens of grace challenges us to move beyond surface judgments and view people as new creations in Christ.
The grace we have received through Jesus—forgiveness, purpose, and hope—should lead us to extend the same to others. How often do we focus on our own gain or lean on preconceived notions rather than seeing people with the love and grace of Christ? Paul urges us to be ambassadors for Christ, carrying the message of reconciliation wherever we go.
Filters in Photos and Filters in Life
The prevalence of photo filters and editing tools in today’s culture can serve as an analogy for how we perceive others. Many of us use filters to present idealized versions of ourselves, and over time, this shapes not just how we see ourselves but also how we see others. The same applies in our personal lives—we impose “filters” on others by labeling or judging them based on incomplete or skewed information.
This filtered perspective is not what God calls us to. Instead, we’re invited to look beyond the judgments and assumptions that cloud our view and see people as they truly are: individuals made in the image of God, full of potential and worthy of love.
Seeing Through the Lens of Eternity
One of the greatest challenges in relationships is overcoming pride, bias, and preconceived conclusions. Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians encourage us to adopt an eternal perspective. When we focus on eternity, we can look past temporary flaws and celebrate God’s work in others.
Jesus’ sacrifice was for all, not just for those who have their lives together. Remembering this helps us to extend grace and resist the urge to judge. Are we willing to pray for redemption in the lives of those around us and embody the ministry of reconciliation God has entrusted to us? Seeing others clearly means recognizing that their worth comes from God, not from their actions or our opinions.
Drop the Stones: Embracing Radical Mercy
The story of Jesus and the woman caught in adultery in John 8 illustrates the contrast between judgment and mercy. The Pharisees sought to condemn the woman, but Jesus’ response was filled with grace: “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” Instead of condemnation, Jesus offered restoration and a chance for a new beginning.
This story challenges us to examine how often we pick up “stones” of criticism, gossip, or judgment. Are we quick to condemn, or do we extend the same grace we have received? Radical mercy may be controversial, but it reflects God’s heart for humanity. Just as Jesus saw the potential in the woman rather than her sin, we are called to see others through the lens of grace and hope.
Remembering Everyone Has a Story
Every person has a story, shaped by their upbringing, struggles, and experiences. Remembering that everyone was once a child can help us approach others with greater compassion. We often extend grace to children because we understand they are still learning and growing. Adults, too, are on a journey, and their actions often reflect deeper battles we may not see.
Recognizing this truth allows us to lay down harsh judgments and embrace the grace that God extends to all of us. Everyone we encounter is navigating their own challenges, and as children of God, we are called to reflect His love and mercy.
Balancing Grace and Wisdom in Relationships
While extending grace is crucial, it’s also important to exercise wisdom in our relationships. Jesus’ teachings reflect a balance between grace and discernment. In Matthew 7:6, He says, “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs,” and in Matthew 10:16, He advises, “Be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.”
Navigating relationships with wisdom means recognizing that not everyone will value or respect what we share. It’s important to set boundaries and seek guidance through prayer and Scripture. This balance of grace and truth enables us to engage with others authentically while protecting our spiritual and emotional well-being.
Practical Steps for Seeing Others Clearly
Pause and pray: Before forming opinions or making judgments about others, take a moment to pray for God’s perspective.
Reflect on your own journey: Remember how far God has brought you and the grace you have received. Let this shape how you view others.
Seek understanding: Instead of jumping to conclusions, take time to listen and learn about someone’s story.
Focus on eternity: Keep in mind the eternal value of every person and the work God is doing in their lives.
Extend grace: When faced with conflict or disappointment, choose to respond with love and forgiveness.
Further Reading
Other Links
Want to hear more? Check out last week’s message titled, Learning to See Ourselves Through God’s Perspective on View Church’s YouTube channel.
Explore additional resources on spiritual growth and relationships on our Resources Page.