Being Yourself

"Everyone the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will never cast out." — John 6:37

People have joined gangs, participated in acts of hatred and prejudice and other behaviors they regret in to gain the approval of others. All people desire acceptance from others. When we compromise our character and integrity to obtain approval from others, this becomes unhealthy. If we're doing something that goes against our consciences to gain acceptance, this is a sign that we're doing something unhelpful.

Sometimes in life, we're exposed to small-minded people: these could be family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and so on. Unfortunately, sometimes people will not accept you as you really are. In times like these, we need to reach out to others and seek friends who will value us, for us; not appreciate us as long as we meet their expectations, but value us for who Jesus made us to be.

The good news is, Jesus accepts us the way we are. He is our first and most powerful friend. God has chosen us to to be Christ's and, as Jesus explained above, "The one who comes to Me I will never cast out." We're accepted forever in Jesus! If he accepts us forever, there is no reason why we should let the disapproval of people dissuade us from being ourselves. Jesus calls us strong, unique, original and set apart. That's the way he made and saved us. Let's accept ourselves!

Sometimes we develop limited ideas of who we are, and we feel compelled to stick with these ideas of self. There is more to us that we often realize. There is a poised, confident, genius within, waiting to be discovered. 

How do we discover our hidden potential? An excellent way to start is being open to following your intuition. It may lead you to try something new online, to shop in a new store, take a different route to the gym, or reach out to someone who needs help. Before you know it, you'll develop a new perspective, and you'll discover more of who you are in Christ. 

Remember, Jesus accepts you the way you are and he always will. There is more potential in you that you realize. Follow your intuition to experience more of yourself and more of life. Jesus will be your friend and lead you.