“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” – Galatians 5:22-23
Living Authentically
As we walk in our faith, authenticity shines through in our actions and words. Being real means reflecting our true selves, free from pretense. Biblical teachings encourage us to embrace this authenticity. We find freedom in being genuine and true to who God made us to be. Living authentically allows us to connect deeper with God and those around us. We express love that is real and meaningful, leading us to reflect the heart of Christ.
1 John 3:18
“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” – 1 John 3:18
Proverbs 12:22
“The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.” – Proverbs 12:22
Ephesians 4:25
“Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.” – Ephesians 4:25
Colossians 3:9
“Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices.” – Colossians 3:9
John 8:32
“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” – John 8:32
Being Honest
In our journey to keep it real, honesty holds a key place. Honest communication not only builds stronger relationships but also ensures we act in accordance with God’s truth. Honesty helps us to expose ourselves to God’s light, leading to healing and growth. While it may seem challenging at times, we know that through honesty, we receive the gift of trust, both from God and from those around us. Embracing honesty allows us to shine the light of Christ in our lives.
Psalm 51:6
“Surely you desire truth in the inmost parts; you teach me wisdom in the secret heart.” – Psalm 51:6
Proverbs 10:9
“Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.” – Proverbs 10:9
Proverbs 28:13
“Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.” – Proverbs 28:13
Luke 6:45
“A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” – Luke 6:45
James 5:16
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” – James 5:16
Real Connections
Keeping it real also involves creating genuine connections with others. As we build relationships rooted in truth and love, we experience the body of Christ in action. True fellowship encourages us to be transparent and reminds us that we are not alone. In our connections, we support and uplift each other, reflecting God’s love through our actions. Embracing real connections fosters a sense of community in our faith journey.
Acts 2:42
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” – Acts 2:42
Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2
1 Thessalonians 5:11
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:10
Accountability in Faith
Accountability is an essential part of keeping it real for us as followers of Christ. It invites growth and maturity in our spiritual life as we help one another stay on the right path. When we hold each other accountable, we encourage each other to live out our faith sincerely. It’s through accountability that we challenge ourselves and our friends to remain steadfast in our commitment to God. We appreciate that true friendship is built on supporting one another.
Proverbs 27:17
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” – Proverbs 27:17
Matthew 18:15
“If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.” – Matthew 18:15
Galatians 6:1
“Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.” – Galatians 6:1
James 4:17
“If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.” – James 4:17
Romans 14:19
“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” – Romans 14:19
Transformation through Christ
Keeping it real is about embracing the transformation that comes through Christ. As we invite Him into our lives, we experience meaningful change that reflects His love and grace. This transformation allows us to let go of the past while confidently walking towards the future. In surrendering our lives to Jesus, we are empowered to live authentically, shedding our old ways and embracing who we are in Him. We realize that this journey of transformation is fueled by His love and strength.
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” – Romans 12:2
Ephesians 4:22-24
“You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” – Ephesians 4:22-24
Philippians 1:6
“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 1:6
Colossians 3:10
“And have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.” – Colossians 3:10
Sharing Our Truth
Keeping it real also includes sharing our personal stories and testimonies. When we speak openly about our struggles and victories, we connect with one another on a deeper level. Our authentic stories can inspire and encourage others, reminding them that they are not alone in their battles. By sharing our truth, we reflect God’s faithfulness and love in our lives. We honor the unique paths God has chosen for each of us while acknowledging the power of His work.
Revelation 12:11
“They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.” – Revelation 12:11
Psalm 66:16
“Come and hear, all you who fear God; let me tell you what he has done for me.” – Psalm 66:16
2 Timothy 1:8
“So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God.” – 2 Timothy 1:8
1 Peter 2:9
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” – 1 Peter 2:9
Philippians 1:14
“And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.” – Philippians 1:14
Final Thoughts
In our pursuit of keeping it real, we openly embrace the authenticity, honesty, and transformation that comes through Christ. God calls us to love our neighbors genuinely and to engage in real connections with others. Accountability within our friendships helps us remain true to our faith, while sharing our personal stories can inspire those around us. We recognize that by allowing the love of God to flow through us, we foster a positive environment where everyone can thrive. As we continue on our journey in faith, let’s remember the importance of being ourselves, reflecting His love, and supporting one another.
If you’re interested in exploring more themes and finding encouragement through Scripture, consider checking out bible verses about forgetting the past and moving forward and bible verses about forgiving others and forgetting.