What labels do we give ourselves? How do they affect us: do they help or hurt us? I venture to think most would say it depends on the label, and to what extent we let it define us. For instance, label of introvert: while it summarizes characteristics such as being shy and not one to put themselves out there in a bold manner, it can become damaging when others consider “introvert” a bad thing and feel they need to change the introvert or force them to be something they’re not. It can also lead to deciding things for them instead of including them, i.e. “they won’t want to do ________ (go see a comedian, go dancing) because they’re too introverted.” How about the label of Christian: while it tells Who is important to us, Who we live for and believe in, if others believe being Christian means we have to be perfect, do everything right, and can’t have any fun, it mars the truth about what a Christian is.
I still remember the first time, back when I was a teenager, that I heard someone say, “Well, I am the black sheep of the family.” I was so taken aback and literally didn’t know what to say. I was actually in disbelief because here is this beautiful person whom I thought had so much going for her! Sure, she had a strong personality and didn’t do everything the way her family thought things should be done. But she was so kind and thoughtful, she was honest and would tell you like it is but also be right there to encourage you. To go as far as being called a black sheep made me really sad for her actually. I still think about her and wonder if she has held that label over herself all these years. It’s easy to forget that labels can change; we change, we grow, we mature.
So for our personal view of ourselves, I pray we remember that we are ultimately defined by God. He has taken the time to wonderfully make each and every one of us (Psalm 139:1-18). I pray we don’t keep ourselves under labels that are condemning or are no longer true. Unfortunately, it can be easy to do this, letting it define us, letting it be true of us, choosing to stay in that place because it’s become comfortable. It’s what we know. And changing, seeking a new truth about ourselves, can be scary. But please remember how much God loves us – loves you! Not because of anything we’ve done, but just because He has first loved us, from the beginning. Let Him love you! (1 John 4:9-10)
And for our view of others I pray we remember the same for them, and allow the grace that goes with changing and maturing. While it’s true that not everyone changes – or changes for the better – I pray we at least be open to it, that we are not keeping them in that same place.
May who we are continue to mature in a wonderfully seasoned fashion as we continue to follow Christ and allow Him to define us. And may we see others, and ourselves, through His eyes.