Are we really who we say we are?
Of course, we’d like to portray our most authentic selves to others. But is this really the case? We wake up in the morning, getting ready for the day ahead. We comb our hair, iron our clothes, and smile to appear presentable to the world. We cover our scars with makeup and convince ourselves that everything is okay when our idea of “okay” is buried within a thick layer of self-loathing, low self-esteem, and despair.
We fear being judged and, as a result, portray a different version of ourselves to others.
Sadly, not everyone will accept you for who you are. Selfishness is a part of human nature. But when the world turns its back on you, it makes you feel bad about your flaws. God has said…
“Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”
Deuteronomy 31:6c
“For the Christian,” no matter what comes, no matter what we do in life, God will love us unconditionally, “as we walk by faith.” It is He who brought us into this world for a reason. Like a loving Father, He looks after His children and is always available for us in times of adversity.
Despite humanity drowning in sin, God sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, who died on the cross to free us from the unquenchable fire.
When you’re feeling down, spiraling into a pit of overthinking and self-loathing, look around you. Look at the birds in the air, with their feathers meticulously arranged so they could soar; look at the flowers swaying with the gentle breeze, how our Lord beautifully painted each petal; look at the stars in the sky decorating it against the flurries of deep purples and blues. And, then, look at yourself. God loves a thankful heart.
You, too, are God’s creation and are worthy of the same praise because we are made in His likeness. The “flaws” you think you have are quirks that make you “you.”
So don’t doubt yourself. Be the most “you” you can possibly be by walking in faith. Yes, there will be times when the world will try to convince you otherwise, making you feel you’re not good enough. But don’t you listen to them, for your Father is cheering you on and always will.
And if you need motivation, author Danny A. Hurd presents “Two Stories, ONE Hope!” It features two stories encapsulating the importance of trusting God and accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior.
Two Stories, ONE Hope! is now available on Amazon.