That’s Not “JUST” Who You Are

The other day, I heard someone say, “That’s just who I am,” after they had been questioned about an unexpected displayed behavior. I’m sure I’ve heard that many times, but this time it really stuck with me. That word…just…that’s JUST who I am. What I heard, “my actions are justified because it’s in me to be that way.” “I’m limited in the ways I can react.” “I’ve conformed.” Acceptance of yourself is a double- edged sword, so to speak, in the sense that we should like our red hair, or short stature, or fair skin because that’s the way God made us. But I don’t think it’s okay to accept ourselves “as is” because we’re too lazy, ashamed, or frustrated to change our bad habits or behaviors.

We are living in a topsy-turvy world, where things that were once unacceptable are now tolerated, and things that were once considered good and right are now condemned. The issues are mind boggling…marriage, gender, illegals having rights Constitutionally reserved for legal citizens, just to name a few. God created us in His image. He is perfect and He doesn’t make mistakes. His Word is truth. So, who are we to go against that by accepting behavior that clearly goes against who God is and what He says? We simply can’t say, “that’s just who I am,” when our actions clearly don’t line up with His will or Word. The bible says in Isaiah 5:20, “Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter.” By removing the standards of God from our society, we are now living in a world where there is no morality; everyone does whatever makes them feel good. Anyone who opposes these new “freedoms” is considered evil and intolerant.

We may not as individuals be able to change what is happening in our world, but we certainly don’t have to accept and adapt to it either. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” God gave you a brain, to think for yourself, to use common sense and good judgement as you go through life, making decisions. Don’t fall into the trap of tolerance for the sake of not making waves. The Word of God is black and white, there are no gray areas. Romans 1:18 says, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth.”