Confidently YOUSample

I AM AUTHENTIC

Being myself is enough.

Picture yourself as a gardener, and your heart as a garden. What would grow there—real, healthy plants or fake, dying ones? It’s tempting to act like someone we’re not to impress people, but God calls us to be real. Like a garden needs water and care, our hearts need God’s Word and prayer to grow in authenticity.

David, Israel’s second king, was authentic. Even in tough times, he stayed true. When he could’ve killed his enemy Saul, he didn’t because Saul was God’s chosen. David ignored his men’s advice and obeyed God, no matter what others thought. Though a king, he saw himself as God’s servant and stayed humble. He was honest too—when he sinned badly, he owned up to it and repented.

David’s honesty, integrity, humility, and openness made him authentic. That authenticity made him a strong leader and a memorable Bible figure. God wants us to be ourselves, following Jesus—the only perfect One. We don’t need to mimic friends or celebrities the world admires. Staying close to God helps us be authentic, and that pleases Him.

Questions:

1. Did everything go perfectly for David when he was authentic?

2. Have you ever tried to be someone else to fit in?

Let’s Pray:

Lord, help me be truly authentic and accept myself as I am. Give me courage to stand against the world’s ways and follow You. Make me honest and humble so others see You in my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.