09.03.22 The 4th Practice for Developing Realistic Expectations as You Wait

4. Distinguish Facts from Assumptions and Emotional Impressions

During this season of waiting, develop the discipline of carefully interpreting what you observe. Train yourself to candidly distinguish between clear evidence of a person's conduct and how the individual makes you feel in a moment. Do not allow a pleasant conversation or strong attraction to determine what you believe about a person’s character. Instead, examine whether the person’s conduct remains consistent over time. 1 Thessalonians 5:21 encourages this careful evaluation, instructing us to test everything and hold fast to what is good.

Observe whether a person’s actions agree with what she or he says and whether promises are carried out responsibly. Let repeated patterns of behaviour to guide your conclusions rather than relying on isolated moments or emotional reactions. Realistic expectations should be based on careful observation rather than assumptions or personal sentiments.