My friend and I went to dinner tonight and, like any good night out goes, discussed deep-rooted trauma as the bread was being served. I explained how illuminating the past few weeks have been for me, discovering that so many of my actions are taken involuntarily, stemming from a core desire to appear a certain way. For me, it’s being “bold,” for her, “perfect.” Regardless, it’s all a ruse to detract from appearing vulnerable. A lot for appetizers, I know.
The thing is, we both relayed how much we like these characteristics of our personalities. For example, when I am brave and uninhibited to step outside my comfort zone and try something others find too daunting, I love myself. But I’m slowly starting to recognize that there are plenty of times I hide behind this spectacle: smoke and mirrors are flashy but inauthentic, and there are plenty of times I use my “fearlessness” to mask genuine fear…
Joshua 1:9 says, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Deciphering one’s personality is, well, personal, but God gives us a straightforward path to pursuing our purest selves. Be unabashedly who you are…but don’t let your own shortcomings detract you from the ultimate victor in Christ.
Food for thought: What’s your default reaction, and how does it serve God?
Rachel Fisher 