Either they’re right and tight or wrong and strong!
What’s the first impression you want to give people?
If this question were asked in a former season, I would’ve said, “the first impression I want to give others is that I’m nice, likable, confident and successful”. Today, my answer is, “ ‘people’ are free to conclude whatever they choose”. As long as I walk in love and live authentically in my skin—flaws and all, I’m alright with God and good enough for me!
GROWTH GAINS
As one that was once obsessed with what others thought and how they perceived me, releasing the false responsibility of trying to “manage” or “control” other’s impressions and opinions is a work of God that bore unmatched peace! With maturation and personal surrender to God, I became more focused on my Creator’s impression and reflection in me. God renewed my mind and healed years of voids, pain, and insecurities. I share this to encourage anyone enduring this struggle that liberty awaits you in the secret place.
BLOOPERS & A
LIL’ WORD
It was important for me to show face and a little folly in this post. Check out this rough, unglamorous, off the cuff, practice video with many bloopers— unexpectedly co-starring Milo, LOL! After several takes, a few inspired thoughts flowed related to “first impressions”.
LEAVE ROOM FOR HUMAN ERROR
It’s really easy to summarize a person from a brief encounter. No one is one dimensional. No human being is without flaws, fears, and growth stages. We’re all in process. It takes intentionality to retain grace and open mindedness for the many human complexities that shape us.
Sometimes, things just aren’t what they appear to be at first glance. It’s also unreasonable to think that everyone will “like” or “see”us as we truly are 100% of the time—especially when we may not show up fully as ourselves, 100% of the time. It is wise to lean on God and flow with the vibe of the moment.
How many times have we misjudged someone based on a “first impression”?
EPIC FAILS & INTRO’S DERAILED
In the video below, I share a personal story of a ‘first impression gone wrong’ during a fragile, lost, newly repentant, residually angry, healing process. Let’s say, art and ‘first impressions’ are unequivocally subjective. Ever try pick up a rose before the thorns are removed or try to eat a cake that hasn’t fully baked? While healing, it can be like that.
LASTING IMPRESSIONS
True connection is divine alignment and compatibility in values, beliefs, lifestyle and common interests. God taught me that in essence, we’re gifted to one another. Whether we’re a chosen vessel for a blessing or lessons, it all “works together for our good”.
The Bible says in Amos 3:3, “can two walk together except they be agreed?” Whether that “walk” is for seven seconds or seventy years, we reserve the right to decide for ourselves. Love reminds us to leave room for grace and forgiveness.
- What we believe about God and ourselves matters most.
- Be kind.
- God’s word reveals exactly where adjustments to perception or behavior is necessary.
- Sometimes silence and distance is necessary.
- Trust God & pray.
- Love discerns love, Love discerns process. Love extends grace.
SOURCE REFERENCES
Amos 3:3, love 25. agapaó , Matthew 22:37-40, Yahweh #3068, Elohim #430 Adonai #136, John 15:1-4, Matthew 7:1-3, James 2:2-9, Matthew 6:14-15, Matthew 5, Romans 8:19-22, Romans 12:2, 1 Corinthians 13, James 1:5, John 1:14, Romans 8:28, Isaiah 61, Psalm 91, Strong’s Concordance, Biblehub.com, Biblegateway.com,
New to the faith?
Glow to victory 
Leave a comment