“The people I know who are the most concerned about their individuality, who probe constantly into motives, who are always turned inwards toward their own reactions, usually become less and less spontaneous, more and more afraid of the consequences of giving themselves away.”- Madeleine L’Engle, A Circle of Quiet
In Chapter 22 (“Walk into a Room”) of The Next Right Thing, Emily P. Freeman writes of her desire to be like herself. But, Emily notes, trouble comes when she doubts that being like herself is good enough, acceptable, or approved by others.
Consequently, Emily eventually comes around to the discovery that her job involves listening to Jesus. In turn, when she listens to Jesus that enables her to be herself. No matter who else is in the room. Therefore, like Emily, you don’t have to defend yourself – simply be yourself.
Furthermore, the author explores the relationship between comparing and connecting:
“When we are comparing, we cannot connect. It’s just not possible. To some degree, we all question where we fit and how we’re perceived. . . . Don’t we all hope for connection but often choose protection instead? When we bring it back to discerning our next right thing today, especially if we have a decision to make, we may have a tendency to base that on comparison and protection rather than on a relational connection? How might your decisions change if comparison didn’t play a role at all?”
Hence, when you walk into a room know that God loves you. And you abide with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. As a result, people don’t feel compelled to respond in a certain way in order to make you feel safe. Your posture of complete and absolute trust in Christ frees you. And everyone else.
In conclusion, Emily urges us to remember that boundary lines, right practice, or perfectly made decisions fail to adequately measure our life in Christ. Rather, the love we experience in the Trinity handed out in abundance measures our life in Christ.
Today’s question: What Scriptures most help those concerned with their individuality? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Five year plan or the lamp of God’s Word?”
