Nougat 31

Today’s Holy Nougat offers an invitation for each of us to see ourselves as God sees us; and act accordingly. (We will unpack over some days).

“Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but become an example of the faithful—in speech, in conduct, in love, in faithfulness, and in purity.” 1 Timothy‬ ‭4:12‬ ‭TLV‬‬

Have you ever been despised or had someone look down on you? Unfortunately, too many of us are intimately acquainted with one or the other, or even both experiences. It is NOT a pleasant experience. Not in the least. The root cause of the treatment varies – race, gender, lineage, religion, class/social location, level of disability, convictions and even age. And, in some cases, our physical attributes (beauty, or perceived lack or even resemblance to another) may be the underlying cause. The manifestations vary, sometimes a simple act of avoidance; or overt malice, sabotage, bad mouthing, or worse yet, physical, mental or emotional abuse/violence.

We live in times where most people think nothing of expressing their feelings out in the public arena. So we see disparaging comments on politics, race, sports, artistes, and even the virus popping up on news feeds. Some are posted in good fun; others however are pure vitriol. With mental health challenges becoming more publicly aired; we can sometimes see the impact of the ‘bad mind’, diatribes, despising of others in the public and private arena. And, if Truth be told, inasmuch as some of us have experienced the negativity and seemed to be unaffected; the challenge of rejection (for that is what it boils down to) tends to affect our self esteem and our confidence.

Timothy, Paul’s protege, possibly met with some resistance from the church he was asked to oversee. Perhaps there were others who knew they were a shoe-in for the role, until the young upstart came and disrupted the status quo. Or they might harbor prejudice because of his mixed heritage and his youth. What we do know is that his age was one factor for consideration as he prepared to take his stand for the Gospel of Christ. (As a woman in ministry, I can say it rankles when folks use my gender as a point of argument in denying God’s call on my life).

Paul recognized the potential impact of others’ disparaging attitudes toward Timothy and; having been there – as abuser and also as the abused – recommended that Timothy shift his focus. He invited Timothy to focus on his identity in Christ. For, when we KNOW that we Know that we know Who we are and Whose we are in Christ; living boldly and confidently for Christ is easier.

What fears, doubts, perceptions of others about us plague our hearts and minds at this time?

How are they affecting what we understand as God’s plan for our lives?

Are we living to God’s FULL potential? What are the stumbling blocks?

I pray that this reminder of our identity helps move us past the stumbling blocks, confidently into God’s future.

Blessings to you and walk boldly in who you are!

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May all we seek be found in Christ