Paul told the Romans not to think of themselves more highly than they ought (Romans 12.3). Paul there is talking about perception – we have to see our own limitations. Not one of us can do everything, we can only do what we are designed to do. Kenneth Copeland was told by the Lord not to do anything other than what the Lord told him or he simply would not have the time to do everything he was told to do. I understand that.
Everything God makes has a purpose. Your cat cannot fly. Your dog cannot talk. That’s not their purpose. We have to perceive God’s design for our lives and do what we are designed to do, not what we just want to do.
You know I teach a lot on dreaming big and using your imagination, and I love inspiring and challenging and encouraging people, but I have seen over the years someone will misinterpret what I am – or what others are saying on faith and dreams and grace – and goes all out to walk in a dream that is not what God has called them to – either it isn’t Biblical or it clearly does not fit what God has designed them to do.
Listen – faith, grace, patience, dreaming big – it only works when you are going for the goals that God designed.
In addition to ensuring we find out what God has designed us to do and therefore perceive what we cannot ever do, we also have to perceive what we cannot do quite yet. I read a story a few weeks back about an aeroplane crash and the reason it crashed was the pilot was inexperienced and could not fly through certain conditions. That’s a tragedy. But I know Christians who try and do things they are not ready for and cause huge amounts of pain for themselves and others.
I know Bible College students who on the day that they graduate want to teach at leadership conferences or give advice to their pastors. They need to perceive their limitations or they will never ever be in ministry. One of the things they say about inexperienced policemen or firemen is that they do not know when to call for backup and get into trouble, that is true of all of us. As Christians, know when to get counsel, know when to ask for prayer, for help, for wisdom.
Now listen what I say next is going to help you win in life. This principle is so powerful it is like a cheat code to the universe. Here it is: if you fail to perceive your limitations, you will inevitably fail to perceive the powerful gifts in the people God has placed around you. In areas in which you cannot do what you are called to do, God has placed people to do that bit for you.
In addition, a perception of your limitations will bring compassion to you from others and prevent arrogance. It will help you realize when satan is trying to get you offended, and when he is giving you fake dreams.
Learn to perceive what you cannot do. And find someone who can!
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