What Do They See?

“No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.” (1 John 4:12 NIV)

During a conversation, a friend of mine described one of her neighbors as “one of the nicest people” that she knew. Later, that phrase made me wonder: how do others perceive me? How would I want others to describe me?

I was reminded of a hard-to-believe story that I heard a long time ago: A woman in a third-world country faced daily harassment as she went to the marketplace. Apparently, this was a common issue in the area for women who were alone. In her vulnerability, she prayed to God for protection. In the coming weeks, she noticed a change. People stopped bothering her. When she mentioned this observation to a local vendor, he exclaimed: “But you’re never alone! There is always this man dressed in white with you.”

I had forgotten this story until now. As I wondered how others see me...I realized what I hoped they would see.

“God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.” (Psalm 46:5 NIV)

I hope that my daily choices are a testament to God’s work in me.

I hope my life reflects God’s unconditional love, continual forgiveness, and sacrificial service.

I hope that when others look at me, they see Jesus within me.

Whether I am aware of God’s presence or not, He is always with me. He accompanies me everywhere I go. Even when I stumble, His arm catches me before I fall. His timing is perfect. His mercies are fresh every morning.

The way I respond to trials, persecution, and suffering becomes my testimony. My attitude, my words, and my behavior speak louder than anything I write or say.

Lord, help me to live in such a way that Your love is fully expressed through me. Even during dark times, may Your radiance shine through me. No matter what the circumstances, let others see Jesus within me.