The Fantasy of First Impressions

There is much more to judgment than what is visible or audible. The key for us, with our limited knowledge, is to resist jumping to conclusions based on first impressions and gain as much information as we can by observing a person over time.

People are deceived by what they think they see and often what they want to see, allowing crafty criminals to cultivate an image that simulates charisma and chemistry. We make assumptions about other people based on the clothes they wear, the cars they drive, and the zip codes in which they live. But fame and fortune cannot be feigned forever. A false façade is hard to maintain. The more you know, ask, or seek to discover over time, the more clearly a person’s true identity is exposed. We can’t just examine behavior on a single occasion but consistently over time.

Paul’s choice of words in 2 Corinthians and in Galatians is significant. He is intentionally distinguishing between suffering a lapse in judgment and intentionally making a choice in lifestyle. Someone who adopts one or more of these acts of the flesh as a way of living will be recognized by their works and likely their words as well. Steer clear. Read today’s Scriptures and reflect on the acts of the flesh and how the living will be recognized.