I probably saw a million different faces today but that’s also a million stories I don’t know. As kids we are told to never judge a book by its cover, yet in todays society we easily judge people based on appearance. We are quick to say whether or not someone is “cool” or “lame”, “fat” or “skinny”. We compare ourselves to the people we wish we could look like. We shoot ourselves down every time we see something we don’t have. When will it stop? I look around and see a world of judgment, of hate, of constant competitions of who’s the best_____. We surround ourselves with these images that no longer lead children to inspiration rather to a lack of self preservation. We see so many people every single day, we don’t know what that person is struggling with inside. Therefore it is everyone’s responsibility to encourage those around them. We have forgotten the “don’t judge a book by its cover” mentality and go right into the judgment seat that is not our seat to fill. We are not called to judge people or place people on a scale. We are called to love those around us as Christ loves us. I encourage everyone to speak life over death. Ladies know this, you are good enough, you are worthy of love, you are seen, you are beautiful, you are strong, you are a daughter of the most high King therefore you are a Princess. Never forget the power you have, the influence you hold to the people around you. You have purpose and whether or not you know what it is right now you are not here for nothing. Stand strong, stand firm and stay steady. Gentleman, you are the man of the house. Do not carry that lightly. You also hold power and influence everywhere you go but remember the image you show to the young men around you. Lead by example because there is always someone watching you. Remember this, you are made in the image of Christ (so are you ladies), you are strong. Stand firm in your faith. You are gentle and caring. You love those around you and you seek to be more like Christ. You are a leader, lead us.
May we put our judgements aside and speak life over those around us. Build each other up, don’t tear each other down. Love yourself because each person holds a little piece of Christ inside them. Don’t be afraid to be yourself because that is just another characteristic of who God is. What better way to learn about our creator than to be intentional with the people around us and to love them just as He loves us.
