Reputation or Authenticity?

David Crone, in his book, The Power of a Life Message, says, "Reputation is what others believe us to be. It may or may not be true. Reputation changes with performance and is at the whim of those that are observing and judging our behavior and the results of our actions. Authenticity is who we really are.
"Those that care more for their reputation than they do for living authentic lives, exist on the edge of a razor. They must make decisions that compromise their character in order to keep their perceived life in tact. Reputation at all cost requires compromise at any cost." (pg 150-151)

Sometimes we get a glimpse at just how much we care about how people perceive us. When one person has the guts to say what everyone else thinks about you, you'll find out how much you care about your reputation! It's one thing to think everyone thinks you're crazy or doing it all wrong and another thing to know they think it!!
Jesus, strip me from the desire to explain myself, defend myself, or even need the approval of anyone but you. Free us from the trap of reputation and free us to live authentic lives that draw others closer to You!
AMEN!