Being different (?) (!)
This song came on the radio today as I was driving and the word “DIFFERENT” seemed to formulate in my mind in bold capital letters beckoning for my immediate attention. Initially I thought of different as opposite from anything or anyone else. I’m not exactly sure that’s the picture the artist is painting for us. The beautiful thing about music and art is it’s ability to meet each person in unique and remarkable places. The vivid picture that was displayed for me today is that God is not asking us to be different as much as He is asking us to be ourselves, the unique person he created us to be, not opposite or in opposition from anyone else. I know for me personally I have sometimes thought being different meant being unacceptable and not fitting it. These are the falsehoods that Satan wants us to believe and sometimes the world we experience; however, I believe God wants us to celebrate our uniqueness and share it with the world, as written by Paul in Romans 12:2, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is —his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
I sincerely believe we all desire acceptance on some level, too often we rely and seek this approval from the world, our friends, family and coworkers. In a general sense I don’t think any of this are particularly wrong the part I question is “why” do we seek their approval? If it’s merely to receive verbal praise and worthiness in “their” eyes I would say…STOP! The only true acceptance in placing value on yourself has already been said and established by God before time began. The hardest thing I have ever done is believe in myself: not what I can do, not what kind of job I have, title I hold, my training or my education; these are additions to me, upgrades if you will. Believing in myself because God made me and loves me PERIOD! God loves you and He loves me! Nothing more nothing less. Of course, God wants our obedience, time and talents but Hos love is not dependent upon us doing any of these things, His love is unconditional for everyone.
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Rom. 5:8
“He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8
“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” 1 John 3:1
Prayer: Thank you God for your unconditional and relentless love. Amen
~Blessings and Peace~
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