As I have looked at multiple social media profiles and read various blog posts, I have discovered that many of us are struggling just trying to make a difference. Now, this struggle is only made harder because most of us still need to be liked, followed, popular, and a part of the in- crowd. But, we fail to realize that our differences do make the most difference. Have you ever gotten more reaction to beating your own drum than being apart of the orchestra? As I have grown and matured, I had to understand that God has placed very specific qualities in me, that do not always flow with the pack. It’s a lonely journey at times, but in the end pros always outweigh the cons. So how can we make a difference while being different? Let’s figure it out.
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2
In writing my blog posts, I have begun a journey of understanding and knowing God’s word for our lives. I have also started to understand that I am not meant to be conformed nor absorbed into what the world would have me be. I am a very different person than everyone else because God made me to be.
Now, when we are children we all yearn to be friends and to be liked by our peers. So, we do all we can to not stand out or think differently than what our friends are thinking. School years are rough because it is very hard to be different and still be liked. Our whole world are the walls of those classrooms, cafeteria, gymnasium, playground, auditorium, and for some of us the Principal’s office. You see it now more than ever how teenagers are so easily influenced by their peers to do the most craziest things, just to fit in. But, what if we could stand out? How would our world be changed for the better? You will find we make more of a difference by being different.
“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet. “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:13-16
Being different is way more than our cultural, religious, racial, and familial backgrounds. It involves the organic nature of ourselves to rise above the glass ceiling of thoughts and care for things. We can all look at what is happening in our world and just turn a blind eye or have the “As long as it does not affect me” mentality. But what if our purpose is to be more aware and allow for our differences to help to stabilize the confusion? We all have something to bring to this crazy table of life, we just need to harness that God given gift that will help build rather than destroy. Our differences will make a difference.
“That you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world,” Philippians 2:15
Moving forward, let’s all try to be more light in the darkness. I know being different is not always a popular choice and it requires you to feel more than you can handle at times. But God called all of us to Stand Out not Fit In. We are in the world but not of the world. I have only just begun to embrace my quirks, but I know that being different has made a difference in my small part of this world. Now I challenge you to try it for yourself. You got this!
Sincerely,
Terryn
MODERN FAITHERELLA 