Those Nasty Blind Spots!
"Blind spots"… we all have them, yet we seldom see them. As a matter of fact, that's the very definition of a blind spot:
blind spot |ˈblaɪn(d) ˈˌspɑt|
noun
1 Anatomy the point of entry of the optic nerve on the retina, insensitive to light.
2 an area where a person's view is obstructed: the angle rearview mirror eliminates blind spots on both sides of the car.
an area in which a person lacks understanding or impartiality: Ed had a blind spot where these ethical issues were concerned.
3 Telecommunications a point within the normal range of a transmitter where there is unusually weak reception.
Of course what we are talking about here is the second definition, the one that deals with "lack of understanding or impartiality", especially the impartiality.
We enter the Christian life with a certain set of assumptions; many or which are untrue. They may be about life itself, about others, or us- incorrect expectations, goals, and aspirations. Self-image is largely shaped by a subjective view that is far from objective reality, certainly far from God's view of us. They determine the quality of our relationships. They certainly dictate our view of God and His nature.
When we begin the Christian experience, we see a dramatic change of life, and much of this change is a direct result of the new perspectives we gain from the Word of God. To the extent we accept these perspectives and exchange the old for the new, we will see dramatic transformation. Unfortunately, there are many areas that remain untouched and the "old man" and his so-called "truths" will dominate us. These “truths” are often lies.
So how do we handle these areas that are unchanged? Not always areas of blatant disobedience, but rather blind spots- those invisible anchors to our soul, chaining us to old ways of thinking and feeling, robbing us of the exciting new life that Christ purchased for us on the cross of Calvary.
Here are a few tips that I believe have helped me with identifying blind spots:
1. Watch for times when things don't seem to make sense. Now you may be saying, "That's all the time!” I understand that feeling. I mean something other than the general sense of disorientation we have as learners in life. I mean those times when people respond to you oddly, or you feel deeply misunderstood, or you can't understand yourself and your actions seem out of character. Also watch for times when the Word of God sounds like "gobbety-gook"- those times where God's truth just doesn't make sense to the realities of your life. These things could indicate that you are bumping up against a blind spot.
2 Cor 10:4 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. 5 We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ
2. Take special note of unresolved conflict. Of course everyone has conflicts, but most should not last a very long time. If you are applying peace-keeping principles and striving for understanding and forgiveness with someone, yet finding no resolution, it's quite likely that one or both or you are functioning out of a blind spot.
Eph 4:26 Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, 27 and give no opportunity to the devil.
Normal biblical processes should pull you out of any normal conflict. When you get "stuck", it can mean that there is some deep deception at work. That's the best time to seek the Lord and His Word with greater attentiveness and ask Him where your thinking is misguided. Look to God for correction and illumination.
2 Tim 3:16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.
3. Be alert during times of deep discouragement or despondency. Now I'm not suggesting that discouragement is of itself evidence or wrong thinking. The Psalmists certainly poured out their hearts to God honestly and candidly during times of deep discouragement. But on the other hand, wrong thinking can often be the cause of the negativism that causes negative feelings.
Prov 23:7 For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. (NKJV).
Times of despondency can be the best times to seek the Lord for wisdom and spiritual light. James had discovered this truth when he remarked…
James 1:2 2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
4. Keep close watch over your relationship with God. I always get a little nervous when I hear someone say, "I'm really angry with God!" or "God seems so very far away." These things seem to indicate that something is wrong. These negative feelings toward God should be only transitional, not permanent. When we get "stuck" in our walk with God, it's not because He is doing something wrong! It generally means we have some deep misunderstandings about God's nature or His intentions for our lives. Usually it means we are failing to fully comprehend his deep, sacrificial, unconditional love.
Eph 3:17-19 "And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge"
It also can mean that we are being controlled by our past or our experiences with our earthly fathers. None of us had "perfect" fathers, and some have had down right nasty ones! As Christians our journey is to lay the past aside and move on with the new discovery of the nature of God found in the inspired Word of God. How long will we wallow in the quagmire of blaming our situation on others? God loves us and has provided a way out.
5. Don't go it alone. The very nature of blind spots requires that we have help. An outside, objective opinion from someone who knows us well and who we trust is important. Someone who sees us in a variety of settings and circumstances will begin to observe behavior and attitudes that reveal unbiblical thinking.
Prov 27:17 17 Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.
With a safe, encouraging friend we will be able to receive input and correction in a way that will not hurt, but will build up. If we don't respond well the first time we talk about it, they will stick with us over the long haul and bring it up at the next appropriate opportunity. Thank God for people like this- spouses, friends, and family. They are key in this process.
Eph 4:15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ,
6. You are well on your way. Until you clearly identify areas of unbiblical, wrong thinking, you are at the mercy of these "strongholds". They can literally hold you back from experiencing the type of Christian life that God wants for you and that Christ purchased for your possession. Once you identify a blind spot you are well on your way. There is much you can do to design an aggressive plan of attack. Now they are no longer “blind spots” but “weak spots”- and much easier to handle.
blind spot |ˈblaɪn(d) ˈˌspɑt|
noun
1 Anatomy the point of entry of the optic nerve on the retina, insensitive to light.
2 an area where a person's view is obstructed: the angle rearview mirror eliminates blind spots on both sides of the car.
an area in which a person lacks understanding or impartiality: Ed had a blind spot where these ethical issues were concerned.
3 Telecommunications a point within the normal range of a transmitter where there is unusually weak reception.
Of course what we are talking about here is the second definition, the one that deals with "lack of understanding or impartiality", especially the impartiality.
We enter the Christian life with a certain set of assumptions; many or which are untrue. They may be about life itself, about others, or us- incorrect expectations, goals, and aspirations. Self-image is largely shaped by a subjective view that is far from objective reality, certainly far from God's view of us. They determine the quality of our relationships. They certainly dictate our view of God and His nature.
When we begin the Christian experience, we see a dramatic change of life, and much of this change is a direct result of the new perspectives we gain from the Word of God. To the extent we accept these perspectives and exchange the old for the new, we will see dramatic transformation. Unfortunately, there are many areas that remain untouched and the "old man" and his so-called "truths" will dominate us. These “truths” are often lies.
So how do we handle these areas that are unchanged? Not always areas of blatant disobedience, but rather blind spots- those invisible anchors to our soul, chaining us to old ways of thinking and feeling, robbing us of the exciting new life that Christ purchased for us on the cross of Calvary.
Here are a few tips that I believe have helped me with identifying blind spots:
1. Watch for times when things don't seem to make sense. Now you may be saying, "That's all the time!” I understand that feeling. I mean something other than the general sense of disorientation we have as learners in life. I mean those times when people respond to you oddly, or you feel deeply misunderstood, or you can't understand yourself and your actions seem out of character. Also watch for times when the Word of God sounds like "gobbety-gook"- those times where God's truth just doesn't make sense to the realities of your life. These things could indicate that you are bumping up against a blind spot.
2 Cor 10:4 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. 5 We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ
2. Take special note of unresolved conflict. Of course everyone has conflicts, but most should not last a very long time. If you are applying peace-keeping principles and striving for understanding and forgiveness with someone, yet finding no resolution, it's quite likely that one or both or you are functioning out of a blind spot.
Eph 4:26 Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, 27 and give no opportunity to the devil.
Normal biblical processes should pull you out of any normal conflict. When you get "stuck", it can mean that there is some deep deception at work. That's the best time to seek the Lord and His Word with greater attentiveness and ask Him where your thinking is misguided. Look to God for correction and illumination.
2 Tim 3:16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.
3. Be alert during times of deep discouragement or despondency. Now I'm not suggesting that discouragement is of itself evidence or wrong thinking. The Psalmists certainly poured out their hearts to God honestly and candidly during times of deep discouragement. But on the other hand, wrong thinking can often be the cause of the negativism that causes negative feelings.
Prov 23:7 For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. (NKJV).
Times of despondency can be the best times to seek the Lord for wisdom and spiritual light. James had discovered this truth when he remarked…
James 1:2 2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
4. Keep close watch over your relationship with God. I always get a little nervous when I hear someone say, "I'm really angry with God!" or "God seems so very far away." These things seem to indicate that something is wrong. These negative feelings toward God should be only transitional, not permanent. When we get "stuck" in our walk with God, it's not because He is doing something wrong! It generally means we have some deep misunderstandings about God's nature or His intentions for our lives. Usually it means we are failing to fully comprehend his deep, sacrificial, unconditional love.
Eph 3:17-19 "And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge"
It also can mean that we are being controlled by our past or our experiences with our earthly fathers. None of us had "perfect" fathers, and some have had down right nasty ones! As Christians our journey is to lay the past aside and move on with the new discovery of the nature of God found in the inspired Word of God. How long will we wallow in the quagmire of blaming our situation on others? God loves us and has provided a way out.
5. Don't go it alone. The very nature of blind spots requires that we have help. An outside, objective opinion from someone who knows us well and who we trust is important. Someone who sees us in a variety of settings and circumstances will begin to observe behavior and attitudes that reveal unbiblical thinking.
Prov 27:17 17 Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.
With a safe, encouraging friend we will be able to receive input and correction in a way that will not hurt, but will build up. If we don't respond well the first time we talk about it, they will stick with us over the long haul and bring it up at the next appropriate opportunity. Thank God for people like this- spouses, friends, and family. They are key in this process.
Eph 4:15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ,
6. You are well on your way. Until you clearly identify areas of unbiblical, wrong thinking, you are at the mercy of these "strongholds". They can literally hold you back from experiencing the type of Christian life that God wants for you and that Christ purchased for your possession. Once you identify a blind spot you are well on your way. There is much you can do to design an aggressive plan of attack. Now they are no longer “blind spots” but “weak spots”- and much easier to handle.
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