He Perceives

Sometimes I wish I were a little more perceptive. Knowing exactly how other people are feeling could be so useful. I would never offend, hurt, or discourage.

I know that I’m most perceptive to what someone is feeling when I know them really well. I think that’s why my mom can so easily read my mind. She knows when something’s wrong because she knows me.

A teacher is so much more capable of instructing when they can perceive how a student is confused. They have to know them well in order to individualize the lesson. Sometimes the lesson is focused on the classroom’s needs, and other times it is focused on each person’s needs.

In 3 Nephi, Jesus Christ is instructing the Nephites in the Americas about a year after His death. In chapter 15, verse 2, it says, “And it came to pass that when Jesus had said these words he perceived that there were some among them who marveled, and wondered what he would concerning the law of Moses…” Jesus Christ then explains that the law of Moses had been fulfilled, and He gives them a new law. But imagine the confusion that would have followed had He not perceived their wonder.

What a beautiful thing it is to know that, although we may not be able to perceive everything about everyone, even ourselves, God does. He knows us enough to be patient with us, and to individualize our instruction on earth. Were it not for a loving Father in Heaven and personal revelation, we would be doomed to wander around in someone else’s shoes. But He knows that we are here to make something of ourselves, and He has provided a way for every single one of us.