Hey Clawson Family!

Song: 

Scripture: 

“For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” — Galatians 1:10

 “In this new life, it doesn’t matter if you are a Jew or a Gentile, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbaric, uncivilized, slave, or free. Christ is all that matters, and He lives in all of us.” -  Colossians 3:11 (NLT)

Devotional:

Authenticity is a word we often hear in today’s culture. It speaks to being genuine, honest, and real. Yet, for a follower of Christ, authenticity is more than self-expression or transparency—it’s courageously aligning our hearts and lives with God’s truth, even when it costs us.

Being authentic in Christ doesn’t mean showcasing our flaws to gain acceptance or sympathy. It means surrendering our weaknesses to the One who transforms us. It’s about walking in the light (1 John 1:7), even when it exposes parts of us we’d rather hide. Dangerous authenticity is being truthful about who we are—sinners saved by grace—and boldly sharing that truth with others.

Living authentically in Christ comes with challenges. The world often rewards conformity, not conviction. Speaking truth may cost us relationships, status, or comfort. Jesus Himself warned, “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you” (John 15:18). Yet, He also assures us that those who lose their lives for His sake will find them (Matthew 16:25).

Consider the apostle Paul. His journey of faith was marked by dangerous authenticity. Once a persecutor of Christians, he became an unashamed ambassador for Christ. He shared his past failures, not to glorify them but to magnify God’s mercy and grace (1 Timothy 1:15-16). His authenticity was a threat to worldly systems and powers, but it brought life and hope to those he ministered to.

When we live authentically in Christ, we are no longer enslaved to the fear of man or the pressure to perform. Instead, we experience the freedom of being fully known and fully loved by God. Authenticity rooted in Christ allows us to rest in His grace and empowers us to share His light with others.

God created you uniquely, and He desires to use you as you are. Being “dangerously authentic” means embracing your God-given identity while growing in Christ. At Clawson, we celebrate diversity in personalities, preferences, and experiences because they help us reach people others can’t.

Authenticity requires humility and courage. It’s not about perfection but letting God shine through your imperfections. Who you are can impact others for Christ in ways no one else can. Be yourself, and watch how God works through you.

Journal:

Answer the following questions in your journal:

1. Are there areas in your life where fear keeps you from living authentically for Christ?

2. How can you use your story—flaws and all—to glorify God and encourage others?

3. Who can you be “real” with today to show the love and truth of Jesus?

Training: 

This week, take one step toward dangerous authenticity. Confess a struggle to a trusted friend, share your testimony with someone who needs hope, or take a bold stand for truth in love. Watch how God works through your honesty to inspire and transform others.

Heavenly Father,

You see every part of me—the good, the bad, and the broken. Thank You for loving me unconditionally and calling me Your child. Help me to walk in dangerous authenticity, not for my glory, but for Yours. Give me the courage to stand for truth, even when it’s uncomfortable, and to reflect Your grace in every aspect of my life.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.