Authentically YOU

I’ve noticed this for far too long. The way we expect perfection from one another——in the church. All the while we shout, “Be Authentic!!” How confusing that must be. How confused we must be. How confused the world must be. We are suppose to be the light of the world and yet we are caught up in the same antics of the world…

I’m honestly upset, angry… in a way about this. The whole thing just hit me today. There was a time not too long ago that I would only share my process once the victory was in my worn-out hands. But then I realized, while powerful, not as helpful for those in it. I wanted to show everyone that I get attacked too. That sometimes, I too struggle with everyday things. But I’ve noticed that when people share vulnerability, they are judged. And this happening among the body of Christ. We think if you struggle, you don’t know God’s love or who you are or your worth. We think, if everything isn’t going perfect, you need some help. And “I’m the perfect one to help you!” This points to pride within us to think that we know it all. But only Christ knows it all!

On another note. It is good to encourage one another. In fact, I think we don’t do it enough. But when we come at one another with this attitude, it actually makes people feel less than, thus making a way for people to partner with a spirit of perfection. Soon enough, people don’t want to share because a fear of being labeled “not a real christian” will exist. And this is partly the reason why big leaders fall. Because they don’t have anyone to lean on in their little struggles so they turn to alcohol, infidelity and the like. The truth is, we’re not perfect. We are human beings who are tested and tried. Jesus was tested and tried. The son of God was tested and tried but without sin. Does any of this resonate with you? Are you feeling this weight of perfectionism? I think it’s time we drop it. And to be honest, some people won’t—drop the pressure. But we have to live by the words that come from his mouth. He is consistently speaking life over us. Have you asked him what he’s saying over You today? We have to focus on what he says about us. We have to bring our Authentic selves.. if we aren’t us, how can we expect the world to rise and be them? I would love to hear your stories, comments etc. I’ll be the listening, non-judgmental ear when you need one.

So let your light Shine. Don’t tame yourself. Don’t hide yourself. Don’t sell yourself short. Be real & be true to you!

In Love,
Jessica