What Does Your Life Look Like Behind Closed Doors?
When we are alone and think no one is looking, is when the light is shining brightest on our actions, even when we are behind closed doors. The impact we have in people’s lives is larger than we realize. We are all role models. Have you ever taken a moment to evaluate the role you play in people's lives? Do you ever question if your role has an impact on people? The part you play is larger than it may appear on the surface.
“Character is what you are in the dark.” – D.L. Moddy
Who is Watching?
Most lessons are learned the hard way; at least that's what someone once told me. I have come to learn, mostly the hard way, that people are always watching. When I think my response or reaction doesn’t matter, it does. Behind closed doors, sometimes I don’t think before I get frustrated in stressful situations and I don’t remember that all things come together just as God has planned.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
When I am having a conversation with friends and family and it doesn’t go the way I originally saw it unfolding in my mind, my words can get away from me and I can speak without thinking about the impact my words can have. I take for granted the power of my words. How I talk to others, the way I respond in situations, my behavior under pressure doesn’t always align with how I should act as a daughter of Christ.
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Proverbs 15:1 (NIV)
Behind Closed Doors
Do you ever look around a restaurant when the food comes to your table before you bless your food? I have. Let’s be honest, when I am in the comforts of my own home, or around a circle of friends who know my love for Jesus, I do not think twice about praying over a meal. When someone needs advice or makes it known they are having a rough time, public prayer is not a struggle.
Related Post: What Your Prayers Reveal About Your Faith
If I’m honest, I can say that I didn’t always feel as though I could express my faith, or be as public with my words when I was in certain elements. In my mind, the way I embraced my faith and my relationship with God should be a private relationship. Worry and doubt crossed my mind about how others would view me if they knew I was on fire for God. I was not willing to be classified as "one of those Christians."
“Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:15-16 (NIV)
Our lives do not have to be on display in order for us to do the right thing. We don’t always have the luxury of being around people who will hold us accountable for our walk with God. When no one is looking, we have to remind ourselves to always do the right thing. Let your light shine bright, even when there is no one looking because God is always watching us."Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." - Galatians 6:9