INFLUENCESample

Stand Out on Purpose

I am a textbook over-thinker. I can turn any normal, easy social interaction into a whirlwind of anxiety by playing out all of the potential conversations before they even happen. It would be bad enough if it all just stayed in my head, but thoughts become actions, and so my over-thinking usually turns into complacency and inaction. Even though I want to do great things, I often decide to try and go unnoticed because that somehow feels easier.

Less fulfilling, but easier.

The worst part of being an over-thinker is, after I have worked hard to go unnoticed, after I let fear rule the day, I realize that it wouldn’t have been so bad to dive into the middle of the situation and stand out.

I wrestle between wanting to stand out, and wanting to blend in.

You’ve probably felt that way too.

A recent online poll showed that over 90% of people consider themselves to be over-thinkers. We’re all doing it!

As much as you try to blend in, you never really will. You’re the only you that has ever been, or ever will be. Your life is a breath, a vapor, unique and mysterious. 

By virtue of being born, you stand out! No one else has your eyes, your laugh, your talents; no one else has your you-ness!

Your you-ness is a gift from God! Its a gift to you, and to the world around you! God made you the way you are, on purpose! Embrace it! Embracing your you-ness is a great way to kick fear in the teeth. Its about trusting that God knew exactly what He was doing by making you, and placing you in the life that you live. Be who He has made you to be! It’s the absolute best way to show Jesus to the world. Stand out on purpose!

Challenge:

1. THINK ABOUT IT! Have you allowed fear to keep you from being bold about what God has done in your life?
2. REFLECT! What can you do today to trust God more, and turn away from fear?
3. PRAY! Lord, thank You for my you-ness! Forgive me for the times that I have allowed fear and worry to prevent me from being who You made me to be, and doing what You have called me to do. Today, I am trusting You above all else.