There’s a place for understanding ourselves, as all too often we try to live disconnected from our inner world. And we then wonder why secret sins keep taking us out. But growing in self-awareness is merely a means to become the men God has called us to be, and not the end. We grow in self-awareness so we can become like the seed – transcending ourselves and bringing more life and goodness to others.
To be sure, a seed’s purpose is not for its own self-interest. It dies to itself to produce a harvest for many. And this is our calling as well. But we cannot give to others what we’ve not first named and cultivated ourselves.
Without sufficient self-awareness we’re prone to simply conform to the expectations of others – becoming what we think they want us to become rather than knowing truly who God has called us to be. Self-awareness allows us to be faithful stewards – protecting ourselves from expectations others might try to place on us, however well meaning.
But self-awareness is not just about navel gazing. While certainly there are many benefits to simply knowing ourselves better, the greater purpose is for us to become a living sacrifice and blessing for others.
For instance, when we know our particular temperament, gifts, and the deep desires of our heart, then we’re in a much better position to offer our unique strengths to make an impact for good in the world around us. We’re no longer a pawn or merely a cog in a machine. We have our own purpose and destiny, but this is clearly seen now in service of love and God’s larger story.
In the end, take the time needed for self-exploration and discovery. And remember the point is to eventually to transcend yourself – living as a seed and giving your life away so others can be blessed.
