Vision180's

Remove the Mask: 2

‘Carry each other’s burdens…’ Galatians 6:2 NIV

So how can we take the risk and let other people know who we are and what we’re going through? First, we need to figure out why we fear taking our mask off, and spend some time working through those things. Then it’s time to accept ourselves. That’s easier said than done. We’re usually our own harshest critics. But you’re God’s masterpiece. It’s cliché but true. He has created you in His image and accepts you as you are. If you can get to the stage of accepting ourselves then your fears of rejection or being unlovable will start to fade. Next, move from thinking about taking off the mask to actually giving it a go. Open up to a couple of people, maybe a family member or a trusted friend, and share what’s going on in your life right now. Share your worries, stresses, struggles along with the great stuff too. Ask them for support and to pray. God wants us to live in community, to help people out and ‘carry each other’s burdens.’ Moses needed to keep his hands raised to ensure Israel’s victory. When his arms got tired two friends held up his hands for him (Exodus 17:12). So, as well as removing our own mask, let’s also be open to confidentially listening to other people who are committed to journeying through life together. We need to be real, authentic and vulnerable if we’re going to be a friend who helps others through life. Are you ready to take off that mask?

Start small, team up with someone you trust. Make a promise to meet up regularly and share the best thing and the worst thing that’s happened to each of you that week. Then spend time praying together about those things.

SoulFood: Ezra 6–8, Matt 28:11–20, Ps 78:17–31, Prov 19:27–29

word4today an adaptation of The Word For Today is authored by Bob and Debby Gass and published under licence from UCB International Copyright © 2017