As so many people in our world care more about what others think about them rather then what they really are, it is harder for one to see God because God can only be seen when we come to see what we really are and that is our core self. In all reality we are all sinners deserving God’s wrath, unable to live a holy life, and in desperate need of a savior. When we are constantly caring about how others see us, we fool ourselves into thinking we are actually what we look like. However, when we care more about what we really are rather then what others think we are, we can see the work which needs to be done in order to fit the outer self that we put out for sale. With this realization God is then able to work with us in our growth with Him in order that we may become mature Christians. Also, when we do not care about our outer self, which is what we seem like to others, gossip and any other judgments made about us tend to just be laughed at. For example if I’m criticized because of the way I have my hair done, it’s funny to me because I know where I stand with God, on the other hand if I’m being criticized for something I know I did wrong, which would be in my core then it would hurt me.
It can be very sad when people focus so much on their outer self. They are always trying to fit in, always trying to impress, have the best clothes, electronics, but even with an outer self so charming and beautiful (Pr 31:30), the core of a person will always be louder then the outer self. For the outer self is only in play when others are around, but when a person is by themselves, their core self still burns on whispering, “this is who you really are.”
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Good post Jose. It’s crazy to think about how many people work so hard to fix their out appearance in order to be liked and welcomed when inside they are truly suffering. This may have nothing to do with what we discussed but I just thought of how important it is for us to be willing to listen and get to know our peers for who they really are. Not pretending or making them seem out of place because they don't have the latest brand but being real with one another
ReplyDeleteI think even I have a hard time with my outer self; although we are called to not be like this world, I believe thats so hard to do because we are living in it and are surrounded by it. The only way to not become influenced is to stand on a strong foundation which isn't even popular in the world anymore.
ReplyDeleteI think that I have a bit of a different idea of how I view myself. I always think of trying to make sure that I place myself in a position that allows for the least amount of dissatisfaction and criticism because I think it allows for others to be more open to what I have to say. It is something that I struggle with and am working even harder on, but I think I gain credibility by meeting people where they are, talking how they understand, and dressing in a way that they cannot question. Maybe I got it wrong. I think I have to wait to find out later.
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