I’ll preface this with I don’t write these because I have things figured out. At 27, I really don’t have anything “ figured out”, but thankfully, I’m not the one in control of my life. I write these to hopefully help people that go through the same things that I struggle with and at the same time, it helps me work through things to get my thoughts out on paper.
The theme of authenticity has been on my mind lately. last Sunday’s sermon was on knowing whether we are authentic believers in Christ. It has also got me thinking, along with other things in life about the importance of being an authentic person in general.
There are many hard lessons to be learned in life, and some of them unfortunately, we have to learn the hard way multiple times. one of those that I learned at a young age and have had to learn many times is that people are not always who we think they are and will let us down time and time again. However, we do have reassurance here in Hebrews 13:8 where we are reminded that Jesus is the same yesterday, tomorrow and forever. Although, when we reach that place there is still a sting there. There’s disappointment, betrayal, hurt, probably anger, and if you are like me, you just feel dumb for letting it happen to you again.
The thought of just putting all of your guards up and not letting people in has probably crossed your mind. You’ve probably said you’re tired of trusting people and giving your time and talents to people who don’t appreciate you and maybe just generally caring or doing good. It would be all too easy to do that;it would save you from going through it all again right ? Trust me I know. However, as tough as it is, we can’t do that. In my opinion, a cynical view is a miserable way to go through life. I feel that this is not what God wants for us. I believe that if we harden our hearts it makes it hard for him to do work within us and if we are closed off to others, it’s very easy for the evil one to get into our heads.
Again, I know it’s tough to do this when you’re struggling with the authenticity of those around you. I know that often times it’s hard to sit back and watch them live their lives that way,and I don’t know about you guys, but it often seems that those that are living this way, and not giving 100% cutting corners and doing people wrong seem to be catching all the breaks. However, we have to remember that if they fooled us into thinking that they are something that they are not, then they can probably fool us into thinking that everything‘s going right for them.
If you are going through a season of your life like this, it would be easy to be angry and bitter and let it weigh you down. Don’t let it. A verse that I go to a lot of times, and I think is applicable here, is Galatians 6:9. Do not grow weary of doing good at the right time we will reap a harvest if we don’t give up. Continue doing good. Love others, even those who have wronged us, because after all that’s what we are commanded to do as Christians. Continue giving 100% because in the long run it’s going to pay off. Remember James 1:12,”Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” Persevere through this time, and hey, if you have salvation through Jesus then this little trial is nothing compared to your reward in heaven.
Friends, I wear my heart on my sleeve. I strive to be the same person to everyone no matter the time, place, or company. If you know me, you can tell me if I’m doing a good job at it or not. I don’t enjoy being around fake people and I don’t want to be fake. I know this won’t be the last time I learn this lesson.
I’ll close with this Right now, I have come to the realization that I cannot control other people and how they treat people. I can only control what kind of person I am. I can choose to let less than authentic people change me or not. It’s tough. Endure it, be the better person, be an example, remove yourself from a situation if you have to avoid stumbling, but keep trying. I think we’ll be glad we did.
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