Far too often, many of us do what we have to do in order to earn a paycheck as we make a living. There also are times when we become consumed with supporting and investing our time into others and their dreams. Meanwhile our real selves get buried under years of filling the roles and expectations that others have placed upon us. Shall we say impostors, my brothers and sisters?
I submit this to your spirit. This is the year where the real you needs to show up. Not the public persona, not the social media you, but the real you. The one who is sick of being alone. The one who still deals with the effects of being abandoned as a child, or rejected following that divorce. The one that can’t seem to progress in your career. The one who doesn’t accept feedback well, and is now stagnant – yes, that you!
I know you’re trying to suppress that person who is inside of you, but God cannot heal that which you continually choose to conceal. It’s time for you to show up because you can’t fix what you won’t face. Before God can manifest new things in your life, you need to give Him access to heal some of the hidden, old areas that you’ve tucked away. Facing these things takes on a variety of forms: face it in prayer, face it via counseling, face it via forgiving those against whom you’ve harbored animosity.
As He heals you, He will also restore your joy and love of life. Have you taken time to consider what makes you happy? What relaxes you? What brings you joy?
Examine yourselves to see if your faith is genuine. Test yourselves. Surely you know that Jesus Christ is among you ; if not, you have failed the test of genuine faith.
2 Corinthians 13:5 NLT
Take a look at the man or woman in the Mirror. Do you like what you see?
Here’s a little self examination homework for you to complete during your devotional/meditation time.
- Compile a list of things that make you unique.
- Place a star beside the things you like about yourself.
- List things you’d like to change about your life.
As you answer these questions about yourself, I encourage you to commit to nurturing and appreciating the things that make you – wonderfully you!
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Psalm 139:14 NIV
Amen, great message!