People often say, “Don’t worry about what others think!” Easier said than done, right? In our new sermon series, author Brené Brown offers valuable advice and life lessons on authenticity. In her research on human behavior, Brown came to an important realization: “Like many desirable qualities, authenticity isn’t something we simply have or don’t have. It’s a practice – a conscious choice about how we want to live.”
Samuel, led by God, was tasked with anointing the right person for leadership. When Samuel saw Eliab, he thought, “He must be the one.” After all, Eliab was a leader in the tribe of Judah in Bethlehem. But God said, “No, keep looking.”
Next, Jesse brought Abinadab before Samuel, but again God said, “No, not him.” Then Jesse had Shammah pass by, but God rejected him as well. Samuel, confused, asked, “Are these all your sons?” Jesse replied, “There is one more, the youngest, who is tending the sheep.”
David was brought to Samuel, and God told Samuel, “Rise and anoint him.” And so, Samuel followed God’s command. Despite others being considered, David was chosen.
God has often chosen the unlikely for greatness, and David is no exception. David fits into God’s narrative of greatness, which is different from the world’s standards. Brown puts it this way: “Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we truly are.”
This is the challenge God presents to us—to rethink what authenticity really means. It’s not about trying to be someone else; it’s simply about being yourself.
Peace,
Pastor Todd