Words we can live by — and aspire to become

Photo by Dmitry Bayer: Unsplash

I’ve had it wrong all these years.

I’ve always thought authenticity meant “say what you mean and mean what you say.”

I’ve always thought it was a fancier way of saying, “be real.”

But I’ve been wrong. 

Being authentic isn’t about finding your true self: “Who am I?”

Being authentic means living up to your aspirational self: “Who do I want to become?”

Psalm 112 has given me that new perspective. Thought it’s one of the shorter psalms in the Bible, it’s filled with some powerful images of who I aspire to be.

I am certainly not there yet. But each day, I’m one step closer to authenticity. I pray these words roll over you like a gentle wave on the shoreline.

“Praise the Lord! How joyful are those who fear the Lord and delight in obeying his commands.”

Joyful: A sense of peace, fulfillment and hope.

“They themselves will be wealthy, and their good deeds will last forever.”

Wealthy: Never wanting for anything.

“Light shines in the darkness for the godly. They are generous, compassionate, and righteous.”

Shining Lights: Others see us and take notice.

“Good comes to those who lend money generously.”

Generous: Cheerful givers who share lavishly.

“And conduct their business fairly.”

Fair: Pursue hearts, not greed.

“Such people will not be overcome by evil. Those who are righteous will be long remembered.”

Memorable: Their influence will carry on after they’re gone.

“They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the Lord to care for them. They are confident and fearless and can face their foes triumphantly.”

Confident: Not in our own ability. But in Someone greater than ourselves.

“They share freely and give generously to those in need. Their good deeds will be remembered forever. They will have influence and honor.”

Influential: Others will seek our guidance and wisdom.

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And now that I’ve shared these words with all of you, I’ve had another revelation:

Authenticity isn’t about becoming the best version of me. It’s about becoming a more accurate reflection of Christ.