10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil. 11 Therefore, knowing the fear of the Lord, we persuade others. But what we are is known to God, and I hope it is known also to your conscience. (2 Corinthians 5:10-11)
Have you ever got stuck in a position where you felt like you had to be someone else? Perhaps it was because you thought who you were was not good enough or maybe you perceived others to want you to be someone else. This passage resonates with me because it is of great comfort for God to know who I am. When we get caught up in perception and delusion, His Spirit cuts through the insecurity to the heart of His child. Be aware of adapting your identity to the feelings of others. Before you know it, you find yourself lost in your developed persona and therefore turn your back on the you that gives God the most glory.
There is a certain beauty in the imperfections of people. They unite us all under the banner of “me too” and breaks through the burdens of perceived perfection. A confidence that comes from comfort in your own skin is purchased through frustration with the standards of a fickle world.
Paul continues after this with a thought on self-awareness. It is so easy to mold the core of your being into who you see the world desiring, and it is just as easy to lie to yourself. Regardless of how much you fool others, your level of peace will be directly proportionate to the lies you believe about yourself. There is a power in being known by God. It gives us a stability the world can never provide. While you can cheat your way into the graces of others and deceive even yourself, God will not be fooled. And this saint, is the glory of grace.
Lord, cut through us. Break us free from the expectations of others and self. Cure us from feeling the need to be something we are not and give us the peace that only comes from embracing our humanity. Thank you for accepting us for who we are, no strings attached.
Matt simon blog 