Message Minute (The Freedom to Stop Pretending)

“So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him.” - Romans 12:1 (MSG)

God doesn't want just your songs or your Sundays. He wants your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work life—placed before Him as an offering. Not your résumé or highlight reel, but your whole story. Not the version you think He'll accept, but all of you, because He already loves all of you.

Christianity has been turned into a performance instead of a presence. Following Jesus has become a checklist instead of a relationship. But pretending is exhausting. Always being "on" for God is exhausting. No wonder so many believers are burned out, they're trying to maintain an image God never asked them to have.

Christmas offers freedom to stop pretending. Bring your mess and receive His mercy. Bring your failure and receive His faithfulness. Bring your shame and receive His covering. The Gospel doesn't make you clean so you can come close—it brings you close so you can be made clean.

Reflection: Where are you exhausted from performing for God instead of being present with Him?

Pray: Father, forgive me for thinking You want my performance. Help me embrace the freedom to just be with You as I really am. Thank You that Your love isn't conditional. Amen.