Happy to be You

I love the Southern Comfort ad that’s been screening on TV for a few weeks. Whenever I see it, I smile. See what you think.

I warm to the ordinariness of the man walking on the beach. I appreciate the simplicity of the cinematography. And I like there being no speech or voiceover. But in the end I’m taken by the quiet confidence of this man. He seems happy in his own skin. He’s pleased to be himself. He seems to know where he’s going in life.

Maybe there’s something here for the follower of Jesus. To be yourself. To be the person God has made you to be. Like all humans you are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14) and amazingly forgiven (Ephesians 1:7). Yet you are unique (Romans 12:6). There’s no-one like you. There’s a particular mix of personality, gifts, skills and calling in you that makes a potent cocktail for use in the kingdom of God, if you’ll live for Christ and serve him with everything you’ve got.

So whilst there’s much to learn from others, don’t try to be them. And don’t compare yourself to others. Instead take courage in order to make a difference each day so you can live out your calling in the context God has placed you – wherever that may be. And do that as part of God’s body – the church (Ephesians 4:4-7).

That’s a message that I need to hear and maybe you do too. About being yourself. So enjoy being you. Thank God for being you. And as you follow Jesus day by day, hold your head high and walk confidently. Be happy being you.