Reflections, Perceptions, and More

Today in training I learned about different self-images, world perceptions, and the ramifications of different combinations of these things.

I imagine someone looking into a mirror, evaluating what they see, then turning to the window to view the world and all the people in it.

How do these two images interact with one another and influence who we are?

As I've been recently reflecting on my own spiritual identity, I can't help but wonder how these perceptions correlate to a person's relationship with Christ.

Keep in mind that the generalizations about images and their implications of a person are completely based on research, not my opinion. However, the correlations made between these images and a person's relationship with Christ are completely my own uneducated speculation. For some people, a relationship with God can be very private and might not be reflected in the images and perceptions they share.

Some people look into the mirror and see someone they do NOT like, but when they look out of the window, they enjoy the view. Research shows that these people tend to be depressed and peer dependent, not quite feeling adequate on their own.

In relation to God? I believe these people see His glory in all creation but themselves.

Some people look into the mirror and see someone they DO like. A LOT. But when they look out of the window, the view seems sparse compared to what they see in the mirror. Research shows that these people tend to be narcissistic and value nothing or no one more than themselves.

In relation to God? There is none. These people are their own god.

Some people look into the mirror and see someone they like at times, and despise at others. When they look out of the window, they face they same battle they face in the mirror. Research shows that these people tend to be unstable. Emotional messes.

In relation to God? Warfare. I believe these people are in a love/hate battle with God, just as they are with everything else in life. The question is, which battle began first?

Some people look into the mirror and see someone they do NOT like, and when they look out of the window, the view is just as unpleasing as the one the mirror offers. Research shows that these people tend to be depressed and reject themselves and others. Endless unhappiness.

In relation to God? Cold.Hardened hearts refusing to soften to His touch, so removed from their savior they feel no hope. I ask, do they harden their hearts to God because they see no hope in life, or do the feel no hope in life because they've hardened their hearts to God?

Some people look into the mirror and see someone they DO like, and when they look out of the window, they enjoy the view as well. Research shows that these people tend to be well adjusted and likely to succeed.

In relation to God? I believe these people are the people who reflect His image. They see the world as His creation and exude Christ's compassion everywhere they go. And thank God for these people! These are the people that touch the lives of others, showing them there is beauty in the world, even inside themselves.

Any thoughts?