My desire to learn more ways to reflect God’s image was fulfilled in an unexpected way.
It all began when I listened to a TBN broadcast that focused on Tauren Wells. At the time, I didn’t know he was a famous contemporary Christian singer, but I soon realized his interview was perfectly timed by God.
After discovering all that Tauren had achieved by the young age of 36, his story became even more powerful to me.
- Platinum-selling recording artist
- Song writer with 10 Grammy awards
- Multi-million-dollar career
Tauren began his interview by saying that his popularity pulled him into focusing on his outward behavior. He laughed as he confessed that he was intent on saying all the right things, doing all the right things, posting all the right pictures, and choosing all the right scriptures. He was very careful to guard his world-wide image, because that was his life.
Then a serious expression spread across his handsome face. He said, “I got to the place where I realized:
- Jesus did not die for my image.
- He didn’t die for the version of me
that everyone is happy to celebrate. - He died for who I really am:
the broken places,
the dysfunctional places,
the places where I worry about trying
to live up to people’s expectations.”
Tauren continued, “Jesus met all of the expectations of others. We will never truly measure up. That’s why Jesus stepped in to be our replacement.”
Near the end, he happily shared with the audience, “Now I’m learning there’s so much freedom in just being honest and transparent. Jesus accepts me when I’m at my very best, but He also welcomes me and loves me when I’m at my very worst. That is the beautiful gift of God’s grace. Now everything I do has power and purpose because I’m focused on Jesus.”
I love Tauren Wells’ concluding statement:
“It’s not about my life.
It’s about His life.
His image planted in me
that He wants the world to see.”
When you allow God to reflect His image in you, people will notice your shining eyes, joy-filled smile, caring words, and your gift of listening. Others will observe your willingness to help others, even when it may not be convenient. Your friends will be especially grateful for the God-given wisdom they receive from you.
Have you experienced the pleasure of someone saying they see God in you? Tell us your story at the bottom of the page!
*TBN interview with Tauren Wells, February 27, 2023
*Image by Alain Audet from Pixabay