Are you for real?

Can we get real for a minute? I want to talk about something that’s been a game-changer in my life: authenticity. I used to think being “real” meant I had to put on a brave face and act like I had it all together. I thought if people saw the cracks—the anger, depression, father wounds, or my messy past—they’d see me differently. Maybe you’ve felt like that too.

But if there is one thing I’ve learned it’s rhat God doesn’t use the filtered, polished version of us. He uses the raw, honest, and sometimes ugly parts of our story to do His best work.

Why We Hide

I spent years hiding behind what I thought people wanted to see. Growing up in a legalistic church, I felt like I had to follow all the rules to be accepted. I thought God was distant, angry, and constantly waiting for me to mess up. So, I faked it, almost all of it. I wanted to look like I had it all together, but deep down, I was falling to pieces.

It wasn’t until I started being honest—with God and myself—that I realized how much freedom I was missing out on.

What Authenticity Looks Like

Here’s what I’ve learned about being authentic: it’s not about oversharing or seeking attention. It’s about being honest about where you’ve been and how God is working in your life.

For me, that’s meant owning parts of my story that I used to be ashamed of. Like the anger I carried for years because of wounds from my stepfather. Or the way I used to search for love in all the wrong places by giving away parts of me to people that didn’t deserve or respect it, thinking it would fill the void or somehow make me worthy of love. Or even how depression has been a recurring battle in my life.

These aren’t easy things to talk about. But every time I’ve shared pieces of my story, I’ve seen how God can use them to connect with others. People have told me, “I thought I was the only one who felt that way.” That’s the power of being real.

Steps Toward Authenticity

If you’re ready to embrace authenticity, here’s what’s helped me:

1. Be Honest with God.

This was a big one for me. I had to stop pretending with God and start telling Him the truth about how I felt. The funny thing is, He already knew. God can’t fix who you pretend to be, or work on the problems you pretend you don’t have. When I opened up, I felt His grace in a way I never had before and so will you!

2. Let Go of Comparison.

For so long, I compared myself to others, thinking I had to measure up to their version of success or faith. But God isn’t looking for a copy of someone else—He’s looking for the real you. Your story is unique for a reason.

3. Share Your Story.

This one is scary, but it’s worth it. Whether it’s with a trusted friend, in a small group, or even just journaling your journey, sharing your story brings healing. Your story will touch those that that no one else can reach and they have been waiting their whole life for it!

4. Focus on God’s Approval.

I’ve spent way too much time caring about what other people think. But when I shifted my focus to what God says about me—that I’m loved, chosen, and enough—it changed everything.

The Beauty of Being Real

Friend, I know being authentic can feel risky. What if people judge you? What if they don’t get it? I’ve asked those same questions. But here’s the truth: when you show up as the real you, you give others permission to do the same.

One of my favorite reminders is from Psalm 139:14: “I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” God created every part of you on purpose. He knew about your struggles and your scars, and He still called you His masterpiece.

Why Your Story Matters

Maybe you’ve been through things that feel too messy to share. I get it—trust. But I’ve seen how God takes the broken pieces of our lives and turns them into something beautiful. He can do the same for you.

When I think about my past, I don’t see shame anymore—I see God’s redemption. And if He can use my story to encourage someone else, He can use yours too.

So here’s my challenge to you: take a step toward being real this week. Start small. Be honest with God about how you’re feeling. Let someone you trust see the real you. And remind yourself daily that God loves you just as you are.

Your authenticity could be the light someone else needs to see Jesus today. Let’s stop hiding and start living in the freedom God has for us.