Authenticity, being real and honest, is another facet of the love that is commanded by Jesus for His followers. 1 John 1:7, 8 says, “If we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ, His son, purifies us from all sin. If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.”
The world lacks genuine fellowship because it lives in darkness - it plays political games, is judgmental, gossips, slanders, lacks confidentiality, shares shallow conversations, and wears masks. Followers of Jesus live in the light – they share hurts, reveal feelings, confess failures, disclose doubts, admit fears, acknowledge weaknesses, and ask for help and for prayer.
True intimacy does not take place in the dark, but in the light. Darkness is used to hide hurts, faults, fears, failures, and flaws. But, when these are brought into the open in an atmosphere that is safe, there is healing.
Authenticity requires: 1) Courage because we face fears of exposure, rejection, and being hurt again; 2) Humility because it requires honesty without bringing attention to us; 3) Safe people and safe places where there is acceptance and confidentiality - not a hint of gossip, slander, judgmentalism, or any form of “unwholesome talk” (Ephesians 4:29).
Why take the risk of being honest? Because, it is the only way to grow spiritually and emotionally healthy – James 5:16 says, “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.”
Make sure that you are “Safe,” make sure that fellow believers are “Safe,” and begin living the authentic life that Jesus commanded.
Enjoying safe people and safe places - Bob
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Welcome to the table, friend!
This is where we gather and hang out. I'd love for you to pull up a chair and jump right into the conversation. Or simply say 'hello.'
l'll be dropping in to visit you sometime soon ...
Linda