Living Authentically

Intro:

Today we’ll look at one of my favourite areas. Not because it’s the easiest. But because it’s one of the easiest overlooked and one of the most important.

Opening Prayer:

Thank you Jesus that no matter how I feel, I know you are here with me today. You’re so much part of my day, you’re the central part Jesus. And I draw near to you today honestly telling you I’m feeling defeated Lord. It’s hard to keep going. Sometimes I wonder whether I can.

But then I listen to you and I know that you first called me, and the calling hasn’t changed. Help me Jesus to overcome each of the obstacles in my way. Turn my stumbling blocks into stepping stones Lord.

I trust you today, just like always.

Amen

Bible verse –

“But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!”
‭‭Galatians‬ ‭5‬:‭22‬-‭23‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Reflection –

This is a key verse for my life. It helps me to return to ‘true north’. To following Jesus afresh. To serving him effectively.

When I’m discouraged and feeling defeated, or even when I’m doing well, I reflect on this verse.

Galatians 5:22, 23 helps me to identify how I’m going emotionally, authentically.
I test myself like this…am I more loving today than yesterday? Do I have more joy? Am I experiencing peace and living out of that peace? Am I patient when dealing with daily challenges?….

I reflect on each of the fruit of the spirit and they authentically help me assess how I’m going emotionally.

I’m healthier emotionally when I’m authentic with God, transparent with a small group of trusted Christian friends and deeply invested in a meaningful Christian community.

What’s that look like?

Being authentic with God happens for me whilst I walk beside the sea along the beach listening to the ceaseless curl of the waves as they land on the shore. Or as I curl up in my Study under the blanket my wife hand stitched with love taking years to create. Or during a refreshing worship service or listening to inspiring worship songs. These are places I especially sense God’s presence.

Being transparent with trusted Christian friends is sharing with mentors and those who listen to and love me like my wife and good friends.

And being deeply invested in a meaningful Christian community I have the privilege to come alongside some of the Pastors who lead our churches using the gifts has given me.

Why don’t you try giving yourself the Fruit of the Spirit test now? Reflect on how you are really going. When testing intentionally I encourage Pastors to score themselves from 1-10 where 1 or 2 on any of the fruit are emergency cries for help. And 10 is impossible.

How are you doing? Take time to reflect, then listen to Jesus and pray. He’s there to help you.

Prayer –
Jesus, thank you that no matter what I have confidence that you are with me. Because you say in your word, you will never leave me nor forsake me. You’ve not forgotten me.

I hold on to your love Lord. Whether I feel it or not I have faith to believe your promises.

The steps of a good person are led by you Lord. I will rest in you, finding hope in you, Jesus.

Amen