So One’s Life Reflects the Man

This week I went to a Celebration of Life service for a dear man we have known for over twenty years. The service was beautiful; rich in God’s hope and love and gave honor to a man of unshakeable faith.  As I sat listening to the eulogies spoken about this extraordinary individual, I remembered Proverbs 27:19 which reads, “As water reflects the face, so one’s life reflects the heart” 

I believe that any time we have an opportunity to reflect on our own life it is so we can become aware of the person we are becoming and to ask important questions like: “Do I have unshakeable faith? Do I hope in the Lord at all times? Do I exhibit the Fruits of the Spirit? Am I kind, loving, caring, compassionate, gentle, slow to anger….?”

As I sat in the service, I heard time and again about a man who was selfless. This individual was not boastful, nor did he ever publicize his acts of kindness or deeds. His life was a direct reflection of Christ which exuded the Fruits of the Spirit and exuberant amounts of Love.

Continuing to listen I instantly thought to the grim affects of social media and how we are so quick to post pictures, videos, rants or stories about ourselves for accolades. We self-proclaim to gain acceptance, rank and popularity rather than cheer on common man or “loudly blesses our neighbor” as Proverbs 27:14 declares. It has become a rarity to act in silence where only God sees our good deeds. Instead we seek the approval of man. Why? It is because our society is becoming a breeding ground that is contrary to everything taught in Proverbs 27 and we would rather conform rather than work against the norm. You know what I heard throughout the service? A calming, peaceful “Sssshhhhh” for God’s people to grasp. A silence that is not inactive but rather active outside of the spotlight. Wow!

God, do I present myself in such a way that you are exhibited in my words and actions? I took away deep moments of self-reflection and areas for correction. I want to be a better woman, a better daughter, a better sister, a better friend, a better servant.  I want to live bolder in my faith that should be limitless, I want to help when I see a tangible need and give even if it stings. I don’t care who sees or if it is done in disguise because I want my life to ooze Christ and purity of heart. It is that true and that simple.

What do you want people to say about you and would it be true?