Be Authentically You

Good morning, Church! Today, I want to talk about something we all struggle with from time to time—being authentically ourselves. How many of you have ever felt the pressure to be someone you’re not? Whether it's at work, at school, or even in your friendships, we all have moments where we feel like we have to show a version of ourselves that’s polished, perfect, or "socially acceptable."

But here’s the thing: God created you exactly how you are—and when you’re truly being yourself, when you’re living as the person God intended, you shine brighter than anything this world can offer.

The "Two Versions" of Ourselves

Let’s face it—most of us have two versions of ourselves. There’s the version we present to the world, the one we carefully curate for social media or family gatherings or that big job interview. And then there’s the real you, the one you might keep tucked away when you’re at home, or when no one’s looking. The real you that can be a little messy, a little imperfect, but at the same time, completely genuine.

Here’s the truth: We’ve all done it. We’ve all been tempted to present ourselves in a way that’s not entirely authentic. Maybe it’s to fit in, maybe it’s because we’re afraid of being judged, or maybe it’s because society tells us that we need to be a certain way. We think we have to play a part.

But the problem is, we often get so used to playing a part that we forget who we truly are. We start believing that the version of ourselves we show the world is who we really are. But, guess what? That’s not you!

God's Creation: One of 8 Billion Unique Masterpieces

The Bible says in Psalm 139:14,

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”

Let that sink in. God created you fearfully and wonderfully—not just the person you show to others, but the real you. That’s right—the real you, the one that doesn’t need to hide behind a mask.

God didn’t create you to be someone else. You are one of over 8 billion people on this planet, and each of us is a unique creation. There’s no one else in the world like you!

When you try to be someone else, you’re selling yourself short.

God made you authentically you for a reason. When you embrace who you truly are—flaws and all—it’s like a light that shines out into the world. And trust me, nothing shines brighter than the real you.

Why Being Genuine Matters

Here’s the thing: We live in a world where everyone is pretending. Everyone has their “public self”—the one they think they should be—and we’ve gotten so used to it that we don’t even notice anymore. We put on our “happy faces,” post our “perfect lives,” and pretend like everything is fine.

But here’s what happens when you let go of that act—when you drop the mask and show the world the real you: people will notice. Not because you’re trying to impress them, but because there is something magnetic about someone who is completely authentic.

When you stop trying to impress, and just let the world see the genuine version of you, that is what captivates people. It resonates with them, often in ways they can’t even explain. And the reason for that? Nothing shines brighter than authenticity.

When You're Real, You Reflect God

Let me ask you a question—why do you think people are drawn to you when you’re being your true self? It’s because when we live authentically, we’re not just showing the world our true selves, we’re reflecting the Creator who made us. God’s glory shines through you when you are being real. In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus says,

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

When you’re genuinely you, your light shines. And that light isn’t just for you—it’s for everyone around you. When people see you being real, they see the goodness of God. And whether they realize it or not, they’re drawn to that light, and they’re drawn to God.

What Holds Us Back from Being Authentic?

Now, let’s talk about what keeps us from being our true selves. The biggest reasons we hide our authenticity are fear and insecurity. We’re afraid of being judged, criticized, or rejected. And that fear can keep us trapped in a cycle of pretending.

But here’s the truth—God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). When we trust God and live authentically, we step into the freedom He has for us.

If you’re holding back because of past hurt, forgive. If you’re worried about judgment, trust. And if you’re afraid of being too much or not enough—know that you are exactly what God needs you to be. It’s okay to be imperfect, messy, and real. God delights in you just as you are.

Conclusion: The Power of Being Authentically You

Church, I want to encourage you today to stop hiding behind the version of yourself that you think the world wants to see. Embrace the beautiful, messy, and perfect creation that you are, because that’s who God made you to be. When you’re authentic, you’re reflecting the light of God to the world—and that light has the power to change lives.

So, let’s stop pretending, and start living as the real us—the person God created and called us to be. When we are genuinely ourselves, nothing shines brighter.

Let’s pray.

Heavenly Father, thank You for creating us uniquely and wonderfully. Help us to embrace who You made us to be, and give us the courage to live authentically—without fear or insecurity. May our true selves shine with Your light, so others may see You in us. We trust that You are enough, and we are enough in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Remember, Church—be authentic, because when you shine as the real you, you’re reflecting the glory of God in ways the world needs to see! Keep being YOU!