An understanding of perspective is one of the keys to gaining wisdom for life. Here is a simple illustration that shows the importance of perspective …
Imagine a group of people sitting in a circle with a small table in the middle. A few observations …
- Firstly, everyone sees the table differently, depending on where they are sitting. No one sees it exactly the same.
- Secondly, no one sees the table accurately. There are parts of the table that each person does not see. No one person has the full perspective, no matter who they are (except for God!). If any individual thinks that they have the complete perspective all by themselves, then they are nothing short of ignorant … and proud.
- Thirdly, the only way to get an accurate picture of the table is to combine everyone's perspective. We must listen to those who see differently from us to learn about what we cannot see.
Take the table out of the middle of the circle and replace it with anything else – an issue, a decision needing to be made, a conflict … whatever. The lessons are still the same. We need other people's perspective to add to our own in order to gain wisdom for life.
How's your perspective?
Perspective … Think about it.
As a leader, Pastor Mark, you may find the following secular book of interest: Why Societies Need Dissent by Cass R. Sunstein. Allowing for differing opinions cultivates a culture that allows for candor and disclosure. Without disclosure by group members, leaders may be missing important information in the decision making process which can help them to stay closer to God’s word, and to succeed.