"Come to Me with your defenses down...relax and feel the relief of being totally open and authentic with Me. Facades abound in the world...(people may) cover up with Sunday clothes and Sunday smiles. (But) the best antidote to this artificial atmosphere is practicing My Presence...(and) glorifying Me. Then you will be able to smile at others with My Joy and bless them with My Presence." (306)
Don't you just love authentic people? Those who have moved past the limitations of preserving their egos, of defending their reactions, and blaming or attacking others when threatened? It all creates such a drama-driven environment! Of all places, the body of Christ should be free of such maladies. Alas, "one of the worst consequences of the Fall is the elaborate barriers people erect between themselves and others" not only in the world but even in the church!
So what sets apart the authentic from the artificial? Here are just a few attributes I value in authentic people. I am so thankful for them because they truly inspire me.
The authentic seem to honestly take responsibility for personal flaws; are quick to listen, slow to speak and when they do, they speak to or about others honorably. They express compassion for others; readily equip and empower someone else's dreams; support unity and efforts to elevate team effort over personal gain; inspire communication, acceptance, commitment, trust, vision, integrity and internal tenacity. Basically, the authentic live in God's Presence, dwelling on and exemplifying things that are "excellent or praise-worthy." (Phil.4:8) They view others as God's Image-bearers not as one's potential enemy!
Our true Enemy desires to make us into self-absorbed, drama-driven puppets on the stage of human insecurities. Our True Friend inspires us to be Christ-absorbed, purpose-driven people with an eternal mission...
On the stage of authentic human significance...dmc
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Well said, Dawn...and I am so thankful for you and your authenticity. You are an awesome witness for Christ!
ReplyDeleteI have also found that being around authentic people refreshes and revives me. It is hard to relax around people who are putting on a show and it is hard to relax when I am having to constantly put on a mask so others don't see the real me. "Relax and feel the relief of being totally open and authentic with me."
ReplyDeleteI love authentic people because I know where they stand! I like what Kay said about people "putting on a show." I wonder if people do this because they are not comfortable with who they are. I would rather people like me for who I am, imperfections and all! I am uncomfortable when they can't do that. When that happens, I just try to let my "primary focus be" on God and love them through Him.
ReplyDeleteI am God's work in progress!
Thanks for sharing insights...you are some of the authentic ones who continue to inspire me! I am SO blessed because of YOU...dmc :)
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