So many times, in relationships we don’t see the way God sees the situation—and that’s because our perception becomes our reality. We can only interpret what we see through the lens of our own understanding, experiences, and emotions. That’s why it’s so important to stop and ask God, “Lord, show me how You see this.” Because sometimes, what we think we see, and what God sees, are two entirely different things.
When God got ready to judge King David, the way He described David’s sin was nothing like how David perceived it. The story in 2 Samuel 12 is powerful. Nathan the prophet comes to David and tells him a story about two men—one rich, one poor. The rich man had plenty, while the poor man had only one little lamb he cherished as family. When a traveler came to visit, the rich man didn’t take from his own flock. Instead, he took the poor man’s only lamb and prepared it for his guest.
David was outraged. His anger burned hot. He said, “As the Lord lives, the man who did this deserves to die!”—not realizing he was the man.
This was David, the man after God’s own heart, yet he was so far removed from his own actions that he couldn’t see them through God’s eyes. That’s what blind spots look like. We can be walking with God, loving Him, serving Him, and still not see our own inconsistencies until God sends a Nathan to open our eyes.
God had to show David how deeply he mishandled Bathsheba and how much He valued Uriah’s life. David saw desire; God saw dishonor. David saw a choice; God saw corruption of the heart. Sometimes we mishandle people in relationships—whether friendships, family, or romantic connections—because we don’t know the work God has done in their lives or the value He has placed on them.
Nathan reminded David of everything God had already given him: the throne, victory, honor, wives, and the kingdom. God even said, “And if that had been too little, I would have given you more.” Yet David’s actions showed a heart that, in that moment, despised the Lord’s commandment.
God told him his sin gave “great occasion to the enemies of the Lord to blaspheme.” That’s a heavy statement. It means our actions as believers—especially when we fall short publicly—can give unbelievers and even fellow believers a reason to question God’s character.
That’s why Scripture says, “Abstain from all appearance of evil.” We must live in a way that doesn’t give the enemy ammunition. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being submitted. It’s about allowing God to deal with the heart before the heart deals deceitfully with us.
Social media makes this even more real. Our posts, comments, and attitudes are all on display. Whether in public or private, God still sees, and perception still shapes reality. People will draw conclusions about our faith by what they see. But God is asking us to go deeper—to see not as man sees, but as He sees.
When was the last time you asked God, “Show me how You see this situation”? Maybe your heart’s been heavy, your emotions loud, and your perspective clouded. But one glimpse through God’s eyes can bring conviction, clarity, and compassion.
Because perception might be your reality—but God’s truth is the only reality that sets you free.