2:270 – Being Real

#faithbites #faithjourney Real

Today, we’re going to take a mini-break from the #redletterchallenge to talk about a core issue in life and Christianity: Being Real. I’ve been at the D2MC (disciples to missionary communities) and been asked about my story as I’m a bit unique. It’s hard for me to get into the real feelings: imposter syndrome, inadequacies, longing, and sense of needed ot be part of something deeper than day to day.

I guess the bottom line is we need to get beyond our walls, beyond our perceptions of others, and just be real. God knows who we are and we can’t hide from him. Now, imagine if we lived in the real world with real people. Sharing the hurt, the pain, the joys, and everything in between. The community we could create would be limitless.

Scripture

Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for each other, love one another deeply, from the heart. For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. – 1 Peter 1:22-23

Reflection

The truth is the Word of God. To have since love for one another and love each other deeply means that we have to be truthful. You can’t build a solid foundation on broken words and promises. This is part of following Christ. Part of being able to live forever without lies, without false pretenses.

This isn’t easy for sure. Many of us have built our walls and have worn masks for many years.

A common phrase I’ve been sharing is the Jesus commands us to Love God and Love People. We can’t love people if we don’t know them. When we hide who we are, we are showing a false image. The person then builds or doesn’t build a relationship based on that image.

It’s time to be real, to be open, and to be honest. God knows who you really are (Psalm 139:1-4), let’s share ourselves with each other.

Challenge

Start opening up to someone. Find one person that you can build that relationship with. Slowly and deliberately share yourself. You will be rewarded.

Prayer

Lord, you knew us before we were born and know us now. You see our hurt, our pain, our strengths, and our joys. Help us to be real with everyone we encounter. Remove the fear from us as we drop the masks and truly live as you want us to. Let us be as open to others as we are to you. Thank you for your strength and your wisdom. In your heavenly name, Amen.