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Perception Versus Reality
Why do the wicked live and become old, yes, become mighty in power?
Job 21:7
Most people agree that perception is (at least) 90 percent of reality. In other words, perception is more influential than reality; what we perceive to be true influences us more than what is true.
Take the perception many Christians have of the wealthy and worldly. It would seem that everything they touch turns to gold. They have more than enough money to smooth out life's daily inconveniences, and more than enough money to do whatever they want without the limitations experienced by the average person--especially the average Christian. Is that really true? Does the external appearance of abundance and carefree living mean those without God are truly happy? Job and Asaph, the psalmist, thought so--until they contemplated the end of those without God: "Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I understood their end" (Psalm 73:17b). The true test of human contentedness is not wealth, but the answer to the questions, "Why am I here?" and, "What happens when I die?"
If you are ever prone to envy those in the world, pray for them instead while thanking God that you know why you are here and where you will spend eternity.
The humble Christian is far happier in a cottage than the wicked in a palace.
A. W. Pink
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