The Power Of Perception

By Pastor Wale OlaOluwa

The book of Mark 8:27-29, lets us into the importance of identity and perception thus: “And Jesus went out, and…he asked his disciples, saying unto them, Whom do men say that I am?

“And they answered,
John the Baptist: but some say, Elias; and others, One of the prophets.

“And he saith unto them,
But whom say ye that I am?
And Peter answereth and saith unto him, Thou art the Christ.”

I D E N T I T Y

One may want to ask why is one’s identify such an important factor?

Identity is a means by which you are known, perceived, called, addressed, recognised and to a large extent, accepted.

It is a positive face, or representation of your person, uniqueness, difference, quality, character, principle and individuality that lives your memory in the hearts and minds of people.

It is a combination of your name, image, strength and weakness.

Identity is a potent resource and a weapon that can reduce, destroy your life; or launch you into the future for good with greater benefit, faster than you can imagine.

Anyone with bad image and perception will always have problem of trust, acceptance, relationship or even support.

Our Lord Jesus Christ was concerned about His image; and how people around Him perceived Him.

Mark 8:27
“And…he asked his disciples,
Whom do men say that I am?

Public Relations and Marketing experts know and understand the power, importance of perception and image. Individuals. Businesses and organisations spend fortune just to create, sustain and maintain constant identity in the minds and faces of people (or public) through branding.

A damaged identity can be calamitous. And to repair, fix or amend it will usually require what is called “damage control”, which often can be so costly – considering the fact that first impression matters. You may not have the opportunity to correct the wrong perception immediately.

Now, do you have a strong and abiding identity? If you don’t, then do all you can to have and maintain one at least, beginning from today.

Stand and be known for something. Someone said, “he who stands for nothing will fall for anything”.

People without identity are easily compromised. They follow every Dick and Harry, and switched on and off at intervals. There is nothing specific you can remember about them except their shenanigans.

For their lack of identity, they copy others, preach other people’s messages, plagiarise works of others, want to speak as others, etc.

It’s good and noble to be known for something, no matter how little. Stand for truth, justice, integrity, loyalty, righteousness, consistency. Be dependable and straightforward, it pays at the long run.

Detest and desist from vices that tarnishe you, your ministry, family or business name and image.

√ Don’t forget who you are.
√ Don’t surrender your good virtues to anyone because of momentary pleasure.
√ Don’t wear fashion because your friends are doing same.
√ Be yourself and don’t live in anyone’s shadow.
√ Be known for what is good, ethical, righteous, godly, truthful and abiding.
√ Stand taller among your peers irrespective of what they say or how they feel.
√ Don’t compromise God, His word and your faith because you want to “feel belong”.
√ Don’t join the crowd.
√ Uphold and constantly promote what you believe.
√ Maintain your difference.

Vigorously work on, and correct what can misrepresent you; your values and virtues.

Use your identity to attract rather than repel people, for a purposeful and productive advantage to gain a better future.

The best way to do that?
Keep learning, hearing and following liberating instructions. (James 1:23-24).

You are lifted.

*OlaOluwa is a senior Pastor at Priesthood Covenant Assembly, Lagos.(0803 331 4312 email: growingwave@yahoo. com)