We learn the power of reflection when we do it deliberately.
A Word Picture
We see our face by looking in a mirror. Similarly, our heart or character reveals our inner self if we’re spending time in introspection.
Proverbs 27.19 pictures the reflection from still water. It’s a classic outside-inside comparison.
We see how we look on the outside. Likewise, we recognize our inner self. But, in both cases there must be honest reflection. And, in both, we must be honest about what we’re seeing.
With water, like in a mirror, it’s face to face. With our heart, it’s person to person.
The Value of Reflection
Being familiar with our appearance is good because we recognize what we look like. But, being familiar with our inner self is essential.
Why essential? Because self-awareness, paired with honest self-assessment, enables us to grow. Thus, to be transformed. That inner transformation builds influence – first to ourself, then to others.
What do we see?
Our face reveals our emotions and our outlook on life.
For example, sometimes we’re angry, Proverbs 25.23 “…an angry face…”, while other times our face shows we’ve been challenged by someone, Proverbs 27.17 “…a man sharpens the appearance of his friend.”
Likewise, our heart reveals our emotional state. In Proverbs 12.25 we read that “Heaviness in the heart makes it stoop…” Similarly, in Proverbs 13.12 “Hope deferred makes the heart sick…”
Unfortunately, according to Proverbs 14.10, “The heart knows his own bitterness…” and Proverbs 14.13 “Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful…” More positively, Proverbs 15.13 “A merry heart makes a cheerful face…” and Proverbs 15.15 “…a merry heart has a continual feast.”
Apply This Today!
Often, we hear what we want to hear, and see what we want to see. The cure? We must seek an outside perspective!
Reflection is only of value when we choose to act on what we see!
In James 1.23-25 we read about looking in a mirror, then forgetting what we saw when we walk away. Don’t be that forgetful person who doesn’t engage in personal growth!
A Question to Consider
Reflection is of limited value unless it’s paired with action. When do you schedule time for deliberate reflection? More importantly, how do you act on what the reflection uncovered?
I’m Dale Young. My posts share the balanced life to build wise character and guide wise behavior.
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