Be Authentic

Be authentic!  Real, true, and bona-fide are a few synonyms for this word that is commonly spoken.  But, finding examples of authenticity in our surroundings isn't quite so easy, especially when we're looking for authentic people...or authentic Christians.  Our Lord talked about those who are inwardly something different than they appear outwardly, calling them hypocrites.  So, what is an authentic Christian.

             A true Christian is not one who never makes mistakes.  If you feel that you may not be an authentic Christian because of your past, or because of current temptations that you're struggling with, listen to what God says: "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us." (I John 1:8) And, "My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous." (I John 2:1) "Walking in the light" includes occasionally stumbling in sin. But we can depend on our Savior to cleanse us from "all unrighteousness."

            An authentic Christian loves the light and has no reason to hide in darkness.  "But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God." (John 3:20)  Mama always said, "You show your true colors when no one is looking." What's great about an authentic Christian is that whether they are home alone or in the auditorium of the church building, they are the same person.

            Perhaps the most beautiful part about a genuine, true Christian is that our dark deeds can be illuminated and then healed by the Light.  "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins..." (I John 1:9)  God's grace makes hiding sin obsolete and detrimental.  And, the body of Christ, His church, is meant to be a safe haven and an island of rest in the midst of a broken world.  Therefore, we're encouraged to "confess our sins to one another." (James 5:16)  We can be authentic, though full of flaws, and still be made pure in God's sight.  Are you hiding?  Come to the Light and be free from darkeness.

----Darrell Powell