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In her famous acceptance speech during the Oscars in 1985, best actress Sally Field said something that people often misquote: “I can’t deny the fact that you like me. Right now, you like me!” For someone who was accepting not her first, but her second best actress award, Sally Field seemed to exude a humility not often found among Hollywood’s elite. Oh, that you and I would have the same confidence to be our authentic selves.
That might seem like a strange wish, to be authentic like someone who acts for a living. But in that moment, Sally Field was showing who she truly is: a gifted actress embraced by those who mean the most to her. In a world that often values conformity and fitting in, the challenge to remain true to yourself may seem elusive. But for those who follow Jesus the quest for authenticity is not just about self-acceptance. Our quest is about aligning with the divine blueprint that God has for each of us.
Overcoming Insecurities
I wonder how those other women nominated for best actress in 1985 felt as they watched Sally Field clutch that golden statue on stage. Did they doubt their gifts, or did they understand that only one person could win? What would they do next? Try to emulate Sally Field, or keep being who they were with their own gifts and talents?
Insecurities and doubts can be significant obstacles on our path to discovering our authentic self. Our feelings of doubt and insecurity, albeit not usually as public as those of Hollywood actors, often stem from fear—fear of judgment, rejection, or not being good enough. Overcoming these insecurities requires a combination of self-reflection, prayer, and a conscious effort to trust in God’s plan for us. Remember, God doesn’t call the equipped; He equips the called. By leaning on your faith, you can begin to view yourself through God’s eyes, as a beloved child, perfectly imperfect.
Faith’s Role on the Road to Being Your Authentic Self
Authenticity is about being genuine and true to one’s own personality, spirit, or character—despite external pressures. In the realm of faith, this means living a life that is reflective of our beliefs, values, and the unique traits that God has endowed us with. The importance of authenticity cannot be overstated. It’s the foundation of a fulfilling life and a deep, personal relationship with God. It’s also essential in showing others what following Jesus means. Hypocrisy won’t be tolerated.
Faith in God is a powerful source of strength and confidence. It reassures us that we are loved and accepted just as we are, with all our flaws and imperfections. God’s unconditional acceptance can empower us to shed the masks we wear and the roles we play to meet the world’s expectations. When we fully grasp that our worth is determined by God’s love and not by our accomplishments or failures, we can start to be our authentic self without apology.
Tips for Finding Your Authentic Self:
- Reflect on Scripture: Find passages that speak to God’s unwavering love and acceptance.
- Engage in Prayer: Use prayer to express your fears and ask for God’s guidance.
- Seek Support: Share your struggles with a trusted spiritual advisor or a faith-based support group.
Connecting with God
Eric Liddell, another famous person for very un-Hollywood reasons, understood that God defined him. A Scottish runner in the 1924 Paris Olympics, Liddell refused to participate in heats for his best race, the 100 meters, because they took place on a Sunday. In the wake of outcries and derision, Liddell could have caved and just run anyway. But he chose to be his authentic self, honoring what he believed God wanted him to do.
The 1981 movie “Chariots of Fire” told his story and made famous one of his most well-loved lines: “God made me fast. And when I run, I feel His pleasure.” He would go on to win gold in the 400-meter race in the 1924 Olympics, a race in which he was not favored. But more significant than that, Liddell would go on to become a missionary in China. He would eventually lose his life while spreading the gospel of Jesus.
Building a deep connection with God, as Eric Liddell did, can significantly enhance our sense of self and our confidence. Prayer, meditation, and other spiritual practices allow us to tune out the noise of the world and focus on the voice of God’s Holy Spirit. God speaks the truth about who we are. This spiritual connection can serve as a constant reminder of our inherent worth and the unique purpose God has for each of us. What do you do that makes you feel God’s pleasure?
Listen to a short segment of this Abide meditation I wrote based on Galatians 2:20. Let God speak to your heart in the next couple of minutes about how faith helps you live authentically.
Acceptance and Growth
The road to being our authentic self is a continuous journey of personal growth. God will guide us along this path. As we grow in our relationship with God, we learn to see ourselves as He sees us—flawed yet beautiful, imperfect yet worthy. This process of acceptance is not about becoming someone we’re not. It’s about fully embracing who God created us to be.
Finding the confidence to be your authentic self in God’s eyes is a deeply personal and spiritual voyage. It’s about discovering God’s purpose, accepting yourself as you are, and living a life that reflects your true self. Remember, authenticity in the eyes of God is not about perfection but about faithfulness to who you are and who you are becoming.
Let Abide be your daily companion in your quest to treasure your authentic self. Our biblical meditations, daily devotions, and Bible-based sleep stories all exist to help you grow closer to God. When you grow closer, you see yourself better through His eyes. Download the app and start a premium subscription to unlock our entire library of content. Here’s 25% off to get you started.
Stephanie Reeves is the senior editor for Abide. She and her husband live in Orlando, Fla., as do their three adult children and one adorable grandson.
