Guy Talk: Expanded

On page 28 of the August issue of ec, writer Will Snipes answered some of our questions about confidence. The thing is, he had more to say that we had space to print. So let's discuss some of the things he didn't get to say in the August issue.

• Will pointed out, guys, that true confidence comes from recognizing who we are in Christ. It's not about what we can do, our achievements, or who we date. As Will says: Our identity—the very core of who we are—is found in Christ and His redeeming love for us. Those who have placed their confidence in Christ realize the need for a Savior, the need for forgiveness of sin. Christ has paid the price for our freedom, and we are pure and holy in the sight of the Lord. We are new creations, and our goals and desires in life have changed. Pleasing God is number one, and we are confident that we can do that by studying His Word, growing in our knowledge of Him, and loving others as He first loved us. Galatians 1:10 says, “For am I now trying to win the favor of people, or God? Or am I striving to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a slave to Christ.” Confidence in Christ empowers us to keep our priorities straight and our eyes fixed unashamedly on Him.

• When Will answered our second question about how that kind of confidence should spill out of lives, he pointed out an important verse of Scripture we all need to be reminded of, sometimes every day! So check out Philippians 4:13: “I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me.”

Quite simply, it's not about what you can do; it's about what God can do through you. Place your confidence in the Creator and Savior. Trust God to give you strength.

Base your confidence level on God. He never lets you down; His love is eternal; He is trustworthy. Live like it!