Renouncing the False Self

There is an image of self - a false self - which is an invention of ourselves that we often create and put forward in full view of others with the intention of hiding the real person. We don't mind if the false public image we put on display is scrutinized or judged. For it is fully prepared for the occasion in its finest - primped and dressed-up to look its best. It is, after all, a larger-than-life image of us, but nota far cry from our real self. This false image is always required to look good at all times, for it is on public display. From all sides it shines golden, glossy, with nothing ugly protruding. It is the best foot forward. The image is an exaggerated portrait of ourselves - or at least the way we want to appear to be - the airbrushed version. The image (as with any statue or vessel) is not solid inside (usually it's shallow or hollow) and the outside veneer has to be recovered and renewed from time to time. Sometimes the image is re-invented and unveiled as new-and-improved so that it comes public with a newer version of self. We call this the "re-invented" self. This image comes with props and a whole host of elements that support the image's claims. It is believeable with testimonials that attest to its claims even.

But, upon close examination and under the glaring light of God, the image crumbles easily when put to the test of strong and forceful elements. Because it stands upon a foundation of sand and clay, the pounding extreme elements of storm and wind through the years will chip away at the glossy and golden veneer ultimately revealing its pretentiousness.

God requires that we renounce the false self-image we have erected. There is no truth to it whatsoever. It is an image we have constructed so others will be amazed and honor us in some way, i.e., our deeds and acts in the kingdom. But it is not based on truth nor does it have an ounce of sincerity. It is, in fact, an idol to ourselves, our pride, our possessions, talents, skills, accomplishments. It sees no flaws (or, works hard to show no flaws), does not demonstrate the humility of Jesus - as he presented himself to His disciples and to those he came to minister.

How do we renounce false self? Ask God to judge the way we are presenting ourselves to the world, the church, ourselves, our family, to Him. Renounce self - false self - the image we have created. God must restore us back to himself where we are once again relating to him from our true self - a truthful heart with sincerity. Receive the humility of Jesus as the foundation of our life, our work, our home.

Galatians 2:20 (New King James Version)
"I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me."

If Jesus is central in our lives, He is working humility deep within and we will welcome Him with open arms, embracing humility as the lover of our souls - renouncing all pride and the false self-image that presents itself larger-than-life.