Counsel #24 — The Power Of Authenticity

Picture: Counsel #24 — The Power Of AuthenticityCCW 40.1

Fear of vulnerability often drives people to pretend, avoiding judgment, or worst of all, apathy. Christians are no exception—many attend church dressed up acting as if all is well. This avoidance of authenticity fosters disunity, as members sidestep meaningful conversations about real-world issues. Choosing to be inauthentic inevitably makes our witness for Jesus ineffective. Shedding pretenses creates a safe space for others to do the same. When believers embrace authenticity in Christ, they form an empathetic community that draws hurting souls. Encourage your faith community to reject pretense, be genuine in Christlike love, and promote positive unity. Be part of the solution—listen, care, and offer an encouraging hug to those struggling to be real.^{[56]https://www.croydonadventist.org/fake-it-till-you-make-it/}CCW 40.2

“Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” James 5:16CCW 40.3

“Think of the importance that Christ places on unity. He prayed that the oneness existing between him and his Father might exist among his followers, that the world might know that God had indeed sent his Son into the world to save sinners. How shall this prayer be answered?—By every believer’s putting away all evil thinking and evil speaking.” Ellen White in The Southern Watchman, March 6, 1902, par. 4CCW 40.4

Reflect: In what ways do you wear a mask to disguise your authentic self at home, church, work, or school?CCW 40.5