Perception is the process of interpreting what we see. An example would be to notice a glass on the counter. We see a glass on the counter and it is filled with water. Perception is our immediate thoughts based on our senses. In this example, it is what we see.

Perspective is filtering our perception through our beliefs and values. It’s our own personal lens of the world. Perspective is based on our past experiences and the life we live. It’s why we can all see the glass with water that is sitting on the counter and make it mean different things. Do I love the taste of water? Do I hate the taste of water? Is that my favorite glass? Have I used a glass to drink and it shattered and cut my foot? Perspective.

Perspective is how we define our perception. Perspective will determine our belief in God. It will limit or expand the power of God in our lives. Perspective will limit and expand our life and life choices.

Sing to the Lord a new song,
for he has done marvelous things;
Psalm 98:1

God has given us a way to check our perspective. Do you look out into the world and see all the marvelous and miraculous things God has created?

Let the sea resound, and everything in it,
the world, and all who live in it.
Let the rivers clap their hands,
let the mountains sing together for joy;
98:7-8

Do we look out into the world and see this ecosystem that continues to thrive no matter what we do to it?

Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth,
burst into jubilant song with music;
make music to the Lord with the harp,
with the harp and the sound of the singing,
with the trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn-
shout for joy before the Lord, the King.
98:4-6

Giving God the glory, in worship and song. The part that benefits us is that we experience gratitude. Having gratitude in tough moments, just requires a shift in perspective.