Given August 2016 

When people see you, what do they think?  When you pass someone on the street or in a store, what impression do they get of you?  When people see you at the ballgame, what do they see?  Most of us project varying images of ourselves depending on where we are or who we’re with.  Someone may say, “Oh, they’re such a godly person.”, but not really know what goes on behind closed doors.  We do mess up sometimes.  Most people don’t see us in all places.  I remember a sermon I heard once about the Pharisees and religious leaders in Jesus’ time and how they projected such a pious image in public with their fine robes and religious speech.  But the speaker made the statement, “But their family really knows what’s under their robes.”  Hippocrates?  Maybe.

Let’s think about how God sees us.  He sees an innocent baby and says, “Oh, how cute, I see great things in this child’s future.” “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11).  We would see something similar in a baby.  But what about a messed up teenager or young adult?  God still sees them the same way; He sees the good in them.  It’s God’s view versus our view.  So, how does God see you?

There is one person who sees EVERYTHING we do and hears EVERYTHING we say and knows ALL our thoughts…God!  He knows what’s under the robe, he sees you behind closed doors, He hears it when you hit your finger with a hammer, and He knows what you’re thinking when you see a person you don’t like.  NOTHING is hidden from God!  Think about it.  But you know, He still loves you and still has that wonderful view of you.  Be encouraged by that.

So, this week, starting today, remember the view God has of you and try to project that view to everyone.  Be true to the view God has of you.  And when you mess up, say, “I’m sorry Lord; I want to be true to your view.”  Remember this phrase and this hashtag, #truetotheview.