Message from Sonya Berges, JH/SH Teacher

Are you for Real?

“If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
1 John 1:8-9

Do you ever find yourself pretending you have it all together? Why? Do you think you’ll poorly represent Christianity if your imperfections show? Are you afraid people will discover you aren’t perfect? This is dangerous. Why? Because it’s fake. Most people are tired of Christians wearing masks, tired of hypocrisy. They want the real deal.

Why is it so necessary to be real?

First for your relationship with Christ. You can’t get close to God without being real and vulnerable. He already knows your weaknesses but trying to hid them keeps you from letting God into your heart. There’s nothing hiding in your life that will make God love you less.

Second your relationship with others requires you to be real. How will people see God’s love if they don’t see Him working in your life? Your imperfections allow others to see God’s grace, forgiveness and healing. If you had it all together, you wouldn’t need God. Others won’t understand their need for God unless they see your need for him.

Being real means admitting you don’t have it all together. Don’t worry about others’ opinions. You have nothing to prove, your worth comes from Christ. People will gain respect for you when you’re honest. They’ll open up to you when they know you can relate.

From “Conversations with Jesus” – Youth for Christ