Are Observations Correct? (Including Both Disciples and Investors!)

What we perceive to be true can be clouded by many factors. Even Jesus’s disciples got confused because what they perceived was clouded. In Matthew chapter 16 Jesus tells the disciples to “Watch and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” The disciples discuss this among themselves and conclude that Jesus is talking about loaves of bread. They lacked perception. Therefore, in Matthew 16:9 Jesus says, “Do you not yet perceive? Do you not remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many baskets you gathered?”

Then, in the verses that follow the light dawns on the disciples. “’How is it that you fail to understand that I did not speak about bread? Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.’ Then they understood that he did not tell them to beware of the leaven of bread, but of the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” Matthew 16:11-12

Reminders for Investors Who See Through Rose-Colored Glasses

Investors can have a mindset that is based on one piece of information to the exclusion of other important pieces of information. Just because one thing in a set of ten is positive, does not mean it is a good investment.

“The halo effect occurs when a positive impression in one area influences an individual’s overall perception and judgment. In the context of investing, this bias can lead investors to form an overly optimistic view of a company’s prospects based on a single positive aspect, such as a popular product or charismatic leadership. It is a good practice remain vigilant and conduct comprehensive research to avoid making decisions based solely on a favorable first impression.” – Forbes

We can also be misled by marketing and sales pitches. Forbes goes on to talk about the “Framing Effect: Shaping Decisions with Presentation.”

“The framing effect highlights how the presentation of a choice can influence decisions, even when the underlying content remains unchanged. In investing, the way an investment opportunity is presented can significantly impact an investor’s perception and subsequent decisions. Smart financial professionals are aware of how they present information to clients to avoid unintentionally biasing their choices.” – Forbes

How to Identify a Follower of Jesus

One aspect of a disciple of Jesus is their industrious effort. Proverbs 31 talks about this type of living and working…

Proverbs 31:17-19 “She dresses herself with strength and makes her arms strong. She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night. She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle.”

Five Minute Friday

This post is part of the weekly Five-Minute Friday link-up.

All scripture passages are from the English Standard Version except as otherwise noted.