Two of the most challenging and frightening concepts for me are:
VULNERABILITY & AUTHENTICITY
One of the hardest things in the world is allowing myself to be both vulnerable and authentic with people. I think we all, to different varying degrees, have some challenges getting real (authentic and vulnerable) with both ourselves, God and others.
Both vulnerability and authenticity can be scary...what if I'm not accepted or loved? What if someone hurts me? I want to control what happens to me!
In my experience taking that approach to life got me two outcomes:
1. Isolation
2. Self sabotashing reliance
This effects our ability to grow and have true, deep and meaningful relationships....especially with God. He made us to need Him and to rely on Him....even if its scary sometimes!
Imagine your heart as a room with a door. Picture closing the door all the way and locking it. Now imagine being alone in that room surrounded by silence...is it a fulfilling a joyful image? It sure isnt for me! After a short time I would long for sound, people, happiness, smiles, hugs, firnedship, love and life! But nothing can enter through a closed door.
If your heart isnt full of love and joy my question to you is...
HAVE YOU CLOSED THE DOOR TO YOUR HEART
SO THAT LOVE AND JOY CAN NOT ENTER?
As we approch a new year, a new chapter or season of life begins if we choose to crack open the door and challenge ourselves to grow, fail forward and trust God. Learning to grow in the areas of vulnerability and authenticity takes willingness, intentionality and prayer...but the fruit is SO worth it!
