Going Deeper With the Word – Embrace Authenticity

Welcome to “Going Deeper with the Word” In this segment, we welcome people of all backgrounds, religious or not, to review the Word of God. The Word of God provides guidance, direction, and instructions for living our lives and walking with God. 

We just talked about embracing authenticity. Now, I want us to explore what Scripture says about this together.

Let’s review examples from God’s Word that can lead and guide our steps and back up the principles we learned in today’s message. I will read scripture today from the Amplified Bible.

Let’s start off with 1 John 4:1

Beloved, do not believe every spirit [speaking through a self-proclaimed prophet]; instead test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets and teachers have gone out into the world.

Psalm 1 John 4:1

I selected this verse because it touches on the idea that there are many in the world who are not authentic. I am sure we all have experienced people in our workplaces, in our schools, and even in our families who matter-of-factly speak words that are simply untrue. 

In this verse, we are reminded that there are teachers and leaders in positions of authority and influence who casually speak in falsehoods. We must be cautious and wary of these types of leaders because they risk leading communities into adverse situations or false pretenses. 

Unfortunately, the nature of man is that he will do whatever it takes to hold on to power; it is something that has existed in our DNA for thousands of years. But those of us who walk in faith to be authentic can be vigilant to keep ourselves, our families, and (wherever possible) our communities safe from those we cannot trust.

Have you been in a position or situation where leadership used lies casually to get things done? How did it make you feel? What were the ramifications of the leadership speaking in untruths? “Let us know in the comments”

Let’s have a look at another place in the Bible that speaks to the idea that all we can lean on God in the midst of struggle

and let us consider [thoughtfully] how we may encourage one another to love and to do good deeds, 25 not forsaking our meeting together [as believers for worship and instruction], as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more [faithfully] as you see the day [of Christ’s return] approaching.

Hebrews 10:24-25

In this verse, we’re reminded of what it means to be in community: that is, to lift each other up, encourage one another, and to respect one another. We even see emphasis on the fact that we should be grateful and thankful for the times we have in community.

As we touched on today, it is so important to find a safe space. It is so important to find a space where we can be exactly who we are, as we are.

Are you a part of a community today? If yes, what are the things that you enjoy most?

If the answer is no, what steps can you take to find a community where you can be your authentic self? “Let us know in the comments”

Let’s look at one last passage.

Consider it nothing but joy, my [a]brothers and sisters, whenever you fall into various trials.

James 1:2

In the scripture, we are reminded, as I have touched on today, that we absolutely can have joy even amidst our trials. When you truly learn how to have an intimate relationship with God, He will allow His presence upon you in such a way that there will be a persistent feeling of comfort, even if reality in the natural is uncomfortable.

When we are experiencing trials, we should feel grateful that we are protected and comforted by God in our time of need. Having joy in difficult times does not mean we are ignoring reality; it means that we are matter-of-factly accepting that God is part of our reality, that nothing is impossible for Him, and that His will is perfect.

When we can know and embrace that we are truly seeking out God’s will, we can experience unshakable joy, even while we may feel difficulty and stress.

Can you think of a time when you were dealing with a difficult situation but still felt God’s presence overwhelmingly? Would you consider yourself to have been in a state of joy despite the circumstances at the time? Explain what joy looks like for you amid these challenges. “Let us know in the comments”

Thank you for your time as we wrap up our series, “Living in the Light.”

I hope this series has been enlightening (no pun intended) and encourages you to walk with God day by day, moment to moment, in everything that you do. When God’s light lives within you, you are simply unstoppable.

May His presence equip you with courage, strength, fortitude, and purpose in every aspect of your life.

May God’s light shine through you to everyone in your circle and allow them to see His love through the works of your hands, the kindness in your actions, and the faithfulness of your spirit.

Thank you for following us, and we’ll catch you in the next series.

Bless you.