“Vulnerability is emotionally liberating.”

A thought from Rick Warren (2012-10-23) from his book, The Purpose Driven Life: What on Earth Am I Here For? (p. 354). Zondervan. Kindle Edition. (Click on the title to go to Amazon.com to buy the book.)

Yes there is a risk of rejection in there but there is also freedom. As Rick says, “Of course, vulnerability is risky. It can be scary to lower your defenses and open up your life to others. When you reveal your failures, feelings, frustrations, and fears, you risk rejection. But the benefits are worth the risk. Vulnerability is emotionally liberating. Opening up relieves stress, defuses your fears, and is the first step to freedom.”

He continues, “The more honest you are, the more of God’s grace you get. You will also receive grace from others. Vulnerability is an endearing quality; we are naturally drawn to humble people. Pretentiousness repels but authenticity attracts, and vulnerability is the pathway to intimacy.”

God has built you just the way you are with your strengths and your weaknesses. He wants you to be real. There is great stress in life to strive to be someone else. That is really tough but there is freedom to be you. No one else is you. So just relax and be you.

Now sin can mess it all up but by giving yourself to God the sin is forgiven and you are able to be you. And by being you others are free ro be themselves around you. And that frees them.

So who are you trying to be?

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