Joyful Authenticity by Shalene

When I began writing and attempting to minister to others through my website and blogs, it was because of the leading of the Holy Spirit. I was led to share my life and my life experiences in a way that would glorify the Lord, and Him alone. I do this by being authentic and transparent in my writings. I share anything about myself, without fear of condemnation. It does not take courage on my part, because I have faith that the Lord has forgiven all my sins, and is shaping me into the person I am to become. He has also used my past to shape me into who I am today. I belong to the most wonderful church- Clovis Hills. Part of their philosophy is to live in Joyful Authenticity.

"Healthy things grow. They are fed, pruned, bear fruit and experience a harvest. If they don’t, they wither, shrink and eventually die. Our spiritual lives are no different. They don’t just grow on their own, they have to be nurtured, cared for and invested in.

God desires to transform our lives into reflections of his character. This happens by spending time with him, studying his word, talking to him and seeking his direction in our lives. And when we do this, we have the freedom to live with Joyful Authenticity- true to not just who we are today, but to who he is calling us to be." From the Clovis Hills Community Church website

It has been said of me on more than one occasion that it must take courage for me to share with my readers. Again I say, emphatically, that no, that is not the case. I have no fear, for that is not of God. Those that would condemn me are not listening to the Holy Spirit in their own lives.

for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed Romans 3:23-25 NKJV

That is not to say that I judge them either. Just that Jesus told us in this world we would have trials, tribulations and that we would be persecuted for our faith. I welcome that if that be His will for me. It would not bother me at all to stand at Heaven's Gate, a martyr to the Word of God. I am human though, and perhaps it may bother me from time to time, if a person does condemn me, but not much. I know that my faith will see me through.

I encourage everyone to live their lives with true transparency and authenticity. There is nothing to be afraid of. Life is but a blink of an eye, and we have such a short time to further His Kingdom. Why live it in fear of what others may think, if it is for His glory alone? So go on: Glorify Him! Glorify Him! Share yourself wholly, with full knowledge that, prayerfully, when your time of judgement comes, you can hear Him say to you "Well done, my good and faithful servant." That is my only goal.

--Lord, I pray today that my efforts do glorify You alone, and that others will see the benefits of living Joyfully Authentic. I pray that they are able to see their way to being transparent in their lives and sharing that which You alone have done for them and through them. I pray that You continue to work through me and allow me to glorify You above all. I pray these things in Jesus Holy Name. Amen.